Antony Odhiambo dribbling past opponents during a past match, showcasing the skill and speed that fuel his dreams of Chelsea, Gor Mahia, and Harambee Stars. ©Pulse Sports

Touted as the next big thing in Kenyan football, Antony Odhiambo dreams of playing for Chelsea, inspiring Gor Mahia fans, and representing Kenya internationally.

Often when dreams are born, they begin quietly in dusty fields, open spaces and childhood laughter echoing around a small ball.

For 13-year-old Antony Odhiambo, that dream started in Sabaki, Syokimau, Machakos County, where every kick of a ball carried a spark of hope. Today, that spark burns brighter than ever, guiding him toward one of football’s grandest stages—the English Premier League.

Growing up in the vibrant community of Sabaki, Odhiambo’s story began long before he could even understand what football truly meant. His earliest memories are filled with the sound of his brother’s footsteps running across the field, the cheer of neighborhood games, and his own tiny legs chasing after anything that could roll.

What started as innocent play soon transformed into a deep passion that has shaped his young life.

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By the time he was five, Odhiambo was already a familiar face on the local field. He followed his brother to training sessions, eager to learn and eager to play. There was something about the way the game flowed-the passes, the tackles, the teamwork—that drew him in completely. And even though he was much younger than most of the kids around him, Antony’s determination made him impossible to ignore.

His first real taste of structured football came when he began training near Sabaki Academy, a place that would become his informal classroom for football education. 

It was there that he started to understand the discipline and technique behind the sport, learning to control the ball and think like a player. Later, he joined Sabaki FC and 360 Football Academy, where his talent began to flourish.

“I started loving football when I was very young. I used to watch my brother and other kids play near our home, and I always wanted to join them. I was told that even when I was just learning to walk, I would kick anything I found around the house,” Odhiambo recalls with a smile.

At 360 Football Academy, Odhiambo’s game has reached a new level. The academy’s structure, discipline, and professional approach have shaped him into not just a skilled player, but also a leader on and off the pitch. His coaches recognize his commitment, while his teammates respect his energy and drive.

“360 Football Academy is very well organized. The coaches focus a lot on discipline both on and off the pitch. We train regularly, and every session is designed to help us improve and reach the next level in our development as players,” he explains in an interview with Pulse Sports.

Odhimabo’’s versatility is one of his biggest assets. Although primarily an attacker, he is comfortable playing in multiple positions—whether as a winger, attacking midfielder, or central midfielder. His quick pace, sharp awareness, and ability to adapt to different roles make him stand out among his peers.

“My biggest strengths are my speed—both on and off the ball—and my ability to study opponents and know when to make the right moves. I also see leadership as one of my strong qualities because I like motivating and encouraging my teammates,” he says with quiet confidence.

Yet, behind the confidence lies humility. Antony knows that growth comes from acknowledging weaknesses and working tirelessly to overcome them.

“I am working on improving my decision-making and marking in tight spaces. I’m also learning to stay calm under pressure and make smart choices faster during games,” he adds.

For Odhiambo, football is more than just a game—it is a calling. His dream is to follow in the footsteps of Victor Wanyama, Kenya’s trailblazer in the English Premier League, and one day don the blue of Chelsea FC, his favorite team.

“My dream is to become a top professional footballer and make a name for myself internationally. I want to be the next Kenyan player to play in the Premier League after Victor Wanyama,” he says. 

“I also hope to represent my country, Kenya, in the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.”

But the journey has not been without challenges. Balancing academics with football has tested his discipline and time management, yet he remains steadfast.

“The biggest challenge has been balancing school and football. Sometimes training and schoolwork can clash, but I stay dedicated and make sure I manage both well,” he admits.

Odhimabo’s love for football goes beyond the pitch. He enjoys video games, often using them as tools to sharpen his understanding of tactics and movement. 

“They help me relax, and sometimes I even learn new football skills and strategies from them,” he says.

And if fate ever led him away from playing professionally, his heart would still belong to the game.

 “If football doesn’t work out, I would love to become a football commentator, analyst, or coach because football is such a big part of my life,” he says.

Behind Antony’s journey is a strong foundation—his family. Their encouragement fuels his ambitions every day.

 “My family has supported me a lot. My parents always encourage me and make sure I have what I need, like football boots and training gear. My big brother has been my mentor and often takes me to the training ground, while my little brother is my biggest cheerleader. Their support motivates me to keep working hard,” he says warmly.

From the fields of Syokimau to the bright lights of his dreams, Antony Odhiambo’s journey is one of hope, resilience, and belief.

At only 13, he carries himself with a maturity far beyond his years—a young boy chasing a ball, but really, chasing a destiny.

And perhaps, one day, as the blue of Chelsea gleams under the floodlights of Stamford Bridge, a familiar name will be called—a name that started in the dust and dreams of Machakos County: Antony Odhiambo.