FROM THE DEN TO THE VALLEY: Collins Sichenje Seals “Dream Move” to Charlton Athletic
It is official: Another Kenyan flag is flying high in English football.
In a move that has delighted fans back home, Harambee Stars defender Collins Sichenje has completed a sensational transfer to Charlton Athletic. The 22-year-old centre-back arrives from Serbian Super Liga side FK Vojvodina for an undisclosed fee, putting pen to paper on a three-and-a-half-year deal.
This isn’t just a transfer; it is a statement. For a player who began his journey in the Kenya Premier League with AFC Leopards, landing a long-term contract with a historic London club like Charlton is the stuff of dreams, and a massive win for Kenyan football development.
The “Addicks” Get Their Man
Charlton Athletic, known as the “Addicks,” have been busy this January, and Sichenje becomes their seventh signing of the window. But according to the club’s hierarchy, this wasn’t a panic buy—it was a calculated business decision.
Managing Director James Rodwell revealed that the club had been tracking the Kenyan international for a long time. Interestingly, Sichenje was originally part of Charlton’s “multi-window strategy” and was budgeted to join in the summer. However, the opportunity to bring him to The Valley early was too good to turn down.
“We’re pleased that the opportunity arose for him to join us earlier than we expected,” Rodwell said, thanking the club’s ownership for the financial backing to get the deal over the line now rather than later.
A Journey of Grit and Growth
Sichenje’s path to England is a testament to resilience. After shining for Ingwe (AFC Leopards), he ventured into the gritty worlds of Greek and Finnish football before finding his footing in Serbia with Vojvodina in 2024.
Now, he joins a Charlton squad that has significantly bolstered its ranks, adding experienced names like Conor Coady and Lyndon Dykes alongside him. For a young defender, learning the trade next to a seasoned pro like Coady is an invaluable opportunity.
Speaking on his unveiling, a delighted Sichenje remained grounded: “It’s a big step for my career. It’s a good opportunity to keep working, developing and help the team, so I just need to be humble and keep working – that’s the goal.”
What This Means for Kenya
For the Harambee Stars, having a centre-back playing regular competitive football in the English leagues is a game-changer. It raises the profile of our national team and offers Sichenje the kind of high-intensity exposure that only English football can provide.
As Sichenje prepares to don the red of Charlton, one thing is certain: he won’t be walking alone. He has the support of an entire nation and the passionate Ingwe faithful cheering him on from Nairobi.
