- In 2002, at just 19 years old, Dennis Oliech rejected a Ksh200 million offer to switch allegiance to Qatar and play for their national team.
- Oliech says it was his best decision, citing reports of mistreatment of foreign workers in the Gulf.
- He claims Gulf employers only value you when you’re useful but later mistreat or abandon you.
- Critics argue that Oliech’s party lifestyle as a football star would have clashed with Qatar’s strict Islamic laws.
At the peak of his career, Dennis Oliech was offered a life-changing Ksh200 million deal to play for Qatar. However, he turned it down, choosing to remain Kenyan and represent Harambee Stars.
Years later, Oliech stands by his decision, explaining:
Many Kenyans working in the Gulf region face harsh conditions under their employers. Some end up in jail due to strict laws. Football clubs only value players while they’re in form but can easily discard them later.
“I have no regrets. It was my best decision ever. Many Kenyans are suffering in the Gulf, and you can even be jailed. Employers only need you when you’re in use.”
The Other Side: Did Lifestyle Play a Role?
While Oliech insists he made the right call, some believe his party lifestyle would have made it difficult to survive under Qatar’s strict Islamic rules.
Oliech was known for his flamboyant social life, something strict Gulf laws would not tolerate.
If he had accepted the offer, he would have had to give up partying and adjust to a highly disciplined lifestyle.
Despite missing out on the massive payday, Oliech still enjoyed a successful European career, playing for Nantes and Auxerre in France before returning to Kenya.
What Do You Think? 🏆🇰🇪 Did Dennis Oliech make the right choice, or did he miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?
