Harambee Stars prospect Wilson Waweru has signed a new deal with Ireland’s Sligo Rovers, committing to the club through the end of the 2026 season.
The 23-year-old striker, who joined Sligo Rovers in the winter of 2023 from Galway United, has quickly made his mark on the team, showcasing his scoring prowess and earning the trust of his manager, John Russell.
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Waweru’s journey to Sligo Rovers has been one of steady progression. After a stellar loan season at First Division side Cobh Ramblers, he moved to Sligo and debuted in their first home game, coming off the bench in a scoreless draw with Derry City.
It didn’t take long for Waweru to announce his arrival, as he scored his first goal for the club against Drogheda United in March at the Showgrounds.
In his 2024 season, Waweru became a key figure for the Irish League outfit, making 30 appearances and scoring ten goals, including a memorable FAI Cup hat-trick against Cobh Wanderers. Unfortunately, his season was cut short in September when he suffered an Achilles injury in a victory over Dundalk.
Currently undergoing rehabilitation, Waweru is expected to miss the opening months of next season, yet he remains optimistic.
“I’m over the moon to get the deal done,” Waweru told the club’s official website. “The year didn’t end the way I wanted to, but the surgery went well, and I’m looking forward to recovering and getting back out there. It’s a slow process, but I’ll get there.”
The 23-year-old also expressed deep appreciation for Sligo Rovers’ manager John Russell, who he says has shown unwavering faith in him.
“I can’t thank him enough for backing me the way he has,” Waweru continued. “I’ve learned so much from him, Ryan Casey, and all the staff. The training is a step up from anything I’ve ever experienced, and it’s helped me improve as a player.”
Rovers manager Russell voiced his enthusiasm over Waweru’s contract extension, highlighting the striker’s potential to become one of the league’s top forwards.
“We’re delighted Wilson has extended his contract with the club,” Russell said. “Wilson has all the attributes to become a top centre forward in this league. He has scored a lot of important goals for us this season, and we believe he will continue to get better and better.”
While acknowledging Waweru’s injury setback, Russell expressed confidence in his player’s resilience. “I know from speaking to Wilson he’s determined to come back fitter and stronger. We’re all looking forward to seeing him back next year as he’s an important part of the team, and he’s shown that already.”
Born to Kenyan parents from Nairobi, Waweru aspires to represent Kenya’s national team, the Harambee Stars. In a previous interview with Mozzart Sports in 2021, he spoke passionately about his desire to play for the Kenyan national team.
“I feel I can bring a young exciting attacking threat and provide a goal-scoring option for the national team to have available to use,” he said. The motivation to represent Kenya, he explained, comes from his parents.
“My motivation to play for the national team comes from my mom and dad, as I know it would be an honor for them to see their son represent the country on the international stage in football. I work hard every day in training for everything my parents have done for me to get as far as I have in my football career, and playing for the national team would be my way of repaying them back.”
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