Govt initially wanted Barcelona and Arsenal for Talanta Stadium opener, Itumbi reveals

Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy Coordination, Dennis Itumbi, has revealed that the government initially sought to bring Spanish giants Barcelona and English Premier League side Arsenal to Kenya for the official opening of Talanta Sports City Stadium before settling on Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam.

Speaking in an interview posted on TuesdayNovember3,2026, Itumbi explained that the government had explored the possibility of securing the two clubs for the high-profile football event but faced scheduling challenges because they do not have a winter break.

“We were trying to get Barcelona also. Also trying to get Arsenal,” Itumbi said.

He explained that clubs in the English Premier League and Spain’s La Liga have demanding schedules during the period, making it difficult for them to travel to Kenya.

“Lakini unajua sasa kule EPL na La Liga, shida yao ni winter break hakuna. So we got people with a winter break,” he added.

The government subsequently secured Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam, whose schedules allowed them to participate in the planned January 5, 2027, friendly match at Talanta Sports City Stadium in Nairobi.

The match is expected to mark the official opening of the facility, which is being developed as part of Kenya’s preparations for hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Itumbi also addressed questions from Kenyans about why local clubs such as Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards and Mathare United were not selected for the occasion.

He described the local teams as home clubs that would have a lasting connection with the facility, suggesting that the January event was intended to serve a different purpose.

“What we are doing on 5th of January, tunalaunch two stadiums,” he said, referring to the Talanta Sports City Stadium and another facility.

He further highlighted Kenya’s unique tourism attractions, noting that visitors attending the football match would also have an opportunity to visit a nearby park and see wildlife.

“This is the only country in the world where you can watch a game at Talanta and, when you come out, enter the park and see elephants and lions,” he said.

Itumbi said the event was part of a broader effort to promote sports tourism and attract international attention to Kenya.

“We are inviting the world for sports tourism,” he added.

William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]

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