Versatile teenage Homeboyz attacking midfielder relishes new centre-back position
Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 26.05.26. | 11:52
The 19-year-old, primarily a central attacking midfielder, was handed a defensive assignment during Homeboyz’s Ingo Derby clash against AFC Leopards
Kakamega Homeboyz midfielder Zinedine Wesonga has opened up on his recent deployment in an unfamiliar but not entirely new centre-back role, expressing satisfaction with his adaptability and growing influence within the squad.
Download our Mozzart Sport app for more news
The 19-year-old, primarily a central attacking midfielder, was handed a defensive assignment during Homeboyz’ clash against AFC Leopards on Saturday, 16 May, a tactical change that raised eyebrows but ultimately paid dividends as he delivered a commanding performance at the heart of defence, particularly in the second half.
Despite the positional switch, Wesonga insists there was no moment of panic or uncertainty when he was introduced into the back line.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the youngster revealed that the role was far from foreign, tracing his defensive foundations back to his formative years while at St Anthony's High School, Kitale, where he initially began his football journey as a centre-back.
“It wasn’t an unfamiliar position for me. I have in the past played as a centre-back during my high school development.
So when I was slotted in during the Leopards match, there wasn’t any stage fright; instead, I was raring to go because I was all too comfortable with the position,” he said.
Wesonga, who joined Homeboyz during the mid-season transfer window, has since begun carving a reputation as a versatile squad member capable of filling multiple roles across the pitch.
Comfortable in central midfield, both in advanced and deeper positions, he says his primary strength lies in adaptability and tactical awareness.
“Naturally, I am an attacking midfielder, but something unique about me is that I am a utility player. Whenever the coach deploys me, I will comfortably adapt since I can also play as a holding midfielder,” he added.
His versatility has already been on display in his debut top-flight campaign.
Wesonga announced himself in style with a goal on his league debut on Friday, 13 February, coming off the bench in Homeboyz’ emphatic 4-1 victory over Bidco United.
Since then, he has featured in three more league outings, in a 2-0 win over Sofapaka, a 2-0 defeat to Tusker, and a 2-1 loss against AFC Leopards, gaining valuable minutes as he continues to adjust to the demands of top-tier football.
Reflecting on his maiden season at the elite level, the soft-spoken midfielder expressed satisfaction with his progress while remaining focused on finishing the campaign strongly.
“It has been an amazing beginning and experience at the top flight, and hopefully we can finish on a higher note in the remaining matches of the season,” he said.
With Kakamega Homeboyz set to conclude their season against Kenya Police FC, Wesonga will be hoping for more minutes under his feet as he continues to develop into a dependable utility player capable of influencing games from both midfield and defence.