“Where I experienced more love was in Celtic,” Victor Wanyama

Victor Wanyama went on to enjoy a successful career in the English Premier League with Tottenham and Southampton, but he insists his strongest ties remain with Celtic…

Victor Wanyama scores the first Celtic goal. Celtic v Barcelona match in the Champions League on 7 November 2012 at Celtic Park. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

The Kenyan midfielder made the move to the Hoops from Belgian side Beerschot under Neil Lennon, quickly becoming a fan favourite among supporters during his two seasons at the club.

One of his most memorable moments came in the Champions League, when he powered in a header to open the scoring against Barcelona in a famous 2-1 victory back in 2012, with Tony Watt iconically later sealing the win.

Wanyama and Watt — 07.11.2012 Glasgow, Scotland. Tony Watt and Victor Wanyama in action during the Champions League game between Celtic and Barcelona from Celtic Park. Photo Big Lens

Celtic also benefited financially from his rise, selling him to Southampton for £12.5 million after initially signing him for just £900,000.

He later followed Mauricio Pochettino to Tottenham, spending a total of seven years playing in England’s top flight. Despite his success elsewhere, Wanyama has always held a deep affection for his time at Celtic.

Speaking via The East African, Wanyama said: “I was treated well in every European club I played for. But I think where I experienced more love was in Celtic. The fans there adore me so much. It was a beautiful feeling and experience.

Victor Wanyama celebrates — 07.11.2012 Glasgow, Scotland. Victor Wanyama, Miku and Efe Ambrose in action during the Champions League game between Celtic and Barcelona from Celtic Park. Photo Big Lens

“Contrary to what many think, football isn’t a sport where you get to make friends. The friendship in football is different. Yes, you may get along with fellow teammates, but there isn’t really a time when you can develop a mutual bond with a teammate because of the nature of the sport.

“One minute you could be playing for this team, and the next you have been sold to a different club, and so you go there to start life anew. Or the teammate you thought you were close to moves to another club.

“Besides, in Europe, no one has time for you, and that makes you realise just how important your family is because they will always be there for you. This explains why you will always find me in the company of my family members. I am very close to all my siblings.”

Victor Wanyama ất East End Park Dunfermline as he meets the media after signing for the Championship side. Photo Dunfermline Athletic FC

The 34 year-old is currently a free agent following his move to Dunfermline Athletic towards the end of last season.

Conor Spence

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