Year-in-Review: Passion over pay - The untold struggles of NSL players
Speaking to Magaribi Digital, players reveal the financial challenges they face while pursuing their football dreams in Kenya's National Super League.
Behind the cheers and goals, players in Kenya's National Super League face daily struggles that rarely make headlines. Many earn salaries that barely cover their basic needs, yet they continue to play for the love of the game.
"If goals were paid in cash, I would be wealthy," quips one player from Migori Youth FC. "But in truth, we survive on very little."
The story is similar across many NSL clubs, where delayed salaries and lack of proper facilities are common challenges. Despite this, players remain hopeful, viewing their time in the league as a stepping stone to bigger opportunities.
Football stakeholders have called for better investment in the league to support player welfare and develop local talent.
