Ryan Ogam: Austrian league more professional, better structured

Kenya’s rising football star, Ryan Ogam, says he’s adapting faster than expected to the Austrian Bundesliga where he recently inked a deal with Wolfsberger AC.

 Speaking to Citizen Digital, during the national team’s training camp in Nairobi, Ogam shared his excitement both for club football in Europe and the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

“The life there is good,” Ogam said. “Everything - from training facilities to team culture - has been welcoming. On my first 15 minutes on the pitch, I felt the pace and intensity, but I see myself adjusting. My ambition now is to score my first goal, once that barrier breaks, others will follow.”

Comparing the football environment between Austria and Kenya, Ogam admitted that Austria tends to be more structured and professional, while acknowledging that Kenyan football is improving.

 “Austria is more professional. In Kenya, we are still catching up but we have great talent and passion. I believe we can close that gap,” he said.

Ogam also praised the role of Kenyan fans, who he says have followed his journey and given him moral support even from afar. At Wolfsberger, he feels recognized, and that encouragement is fueling his fire.

Setting clear targets for the season, he revealed his goal tally ambition is 10 goals. But for now, he’s focused on breaking the duck.

 “Scoring that first goal is key. After that, the rest will come naturally,” Ogam explained. He urged Kenyan supporters to rally behind Harambee Stars in the upcoming qualifiers.

As Ogam steps onto the field for Wolfsberger AC and Kenya’s national side, he carries not just his own dreams, but the aspirations of a nation ready to see its stars compete on the global stage.