Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie has proposed hosting a high-profile friendly match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Talanta Stadium, a move that has sparked excitement among local football fans.
Speaking in Parliament, the legislator said such a fixture would help inspire young footballers, boost youth engagement and strengthen grassroots football development in Kenya.
“I am a big fan of Kawangware United. Hon. Mwenje should look for opportunities to bring two of the world’s biggest clubs to Kenya. It would inspire our young players. I am a football fan, Mr Speaker, and I have always supported the great Manchester United. It would be such a spectacle to have Manchester play Arsenal here,” he said.
The MP added that the match could form part of a wider community development initiative, with proceeds channelled towards grassroots football programmes.
The proposal has been welcomed by football supporters and netizens, many of whom see it as a rare opportunity for Kenyan fans to watch elite-level football without travelling abroad.
Manchester United and Arsenal remain among the most followed football clubs globally, with massive fan bases across Africa.
Arsenal recently ended a two-decade wait for the English Premier League title, clinching their 14th league crown after a campaign defined by defensive discipline and resilience. Their narrow 1-0 victory over Burnley proved crucial in securing the title.
The triumph placed Arsenal third on the all-time English league winners list behind Liverpool and Manchester United, while reviving comparisons with the club’s legendary 2003-04 “Invincibles” side.
The North London club is also set to face Paris Saint-Germain this Saturday.
Online reactions to the proposal were swift, with one user, Johnny Moc Jarex, writing: “Good, but when you mention Arsenal remember to use the term champions.”
Another user, Eric Kimanzi, suggested: “Maybe Arsenal and Harambee Stars.”