Brian Mandela Onyango is now a free agent after parting ways with South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC at the end of his contract and interest in the Harambee Stars defender is already growing as clubs line up for his signature ahead of the 2025/2026 season.
Mandela joined Stellenbosch at the start of the recently concluded 2024/2025 campaign and made eight appearances across all competitions.
Despite limited game time, he played a key role in guiding the club to the MTN8 final and helping them qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup for the second successive year.
His solid performances also earned him a recall to the national team after almost two years out.
Confirming his departure, Stellenbosch said in a statement: “Stellenbosch Football Club can confirm that Brian Onyango has departed the club following the expiration of his contract.”
Mandela’s experience, work ethic, and leadership on and off the pitch have drawn attention from clubs within South Africa and beyond, as he looks to secure a new challenge that will keep him sharp for the upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
He also leaves Stellenbosch as a nominee for the 2024/2025 SFC Sportsman of the Season award.
The 30-year-old defender, who began his South African football journey in 2012, has previously turned out for Santos FC, Maritzburg United, and Mamelodi Sundowns. His next destination could shape the final years of a career that has seen him become one of Kenya’s most dependable defenders.
