Footballer Arnold Origi: Why I Renounced My Kenyan Citizenship in 2017

Kenyan-born footballer Arnold Origi has come out to explain why he relinquished his Kenyan citizenship in 2017, effectively losing his spot in the national side—Harambee Stars.

Origi, who plays as a goalkeeper, acquired Norwegian citizenship, and given that the European nation did not provide for dual nationality at the time, he could no longer be allowed to represent Kenya at the international level.

In a recent interview with KTN News, Origi who currently plays for Finnish football club HIFK Fotboll said Kenyan fans branded him a traitor and unpatriotic after making the move.

But why did he switch his nationality and end his international career at a time when he was the number one goalkeeper for the national football team?

He explained: “There are more possibilities. Having a European Passport puts you in the market to access different football markets which I could not access with my Kenyan citizenship alone.” 

He added: “After the announcement was made, many people called me a traitor a ‘Judas’ but I was only doing it for my career in football.” 

During the interview, the 36-year-old said he is ready to rejoin Harambee Stars if called up after Norway passed new regulations early this year allowing for dual nationality.

“I used to be the Harambee Stars goalkeeper because I was the best and I am looking forward to fighting for that spot once again. If the coach thinks I’m good enough to play for the national team, I’m available and eligible,” he noted.

Arnold is a cousin to Liverpool striker Divock Origi, who represents Belgium at the international level.