The government may be planning another major friendly at the Raila Odinga International Stadium. This would follow the Bayern Munich and Ajax clash set for January 5 2027.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen hinted at the plan on Sunday. He said English giants Manchester United and Arsenal could face off in Nairobi. The match may take place between June and July 2027 just before the Africa Cup of Nations. Kenya will co-host the tournament with Uganda and Tanzania.

"Next year the president will bring Arsenal and Manchester United to play in Nairobi in July 2027," Murkomen said. His words raised hopes among football fans across the country.

The earlier match will officially open the 60,000-seat stadium which is in the final stages of construction. Tickets for the game start at Ksh2,500. Both clubs have promised to field their strongest starting elevens. That rules out a legends match or an academy exhibition.

Murkomen said the January fixture has drawn strong interest from abroad. "We have 5,000 Europeans coming to Kenya to watch the match," he said. He added that fans from Nigeria and Egypt will also travel to Nairobi.

Organisers are preparing a 12-hour fan festival around the game. It will feature international artists and concierge services. Activities will celebrate sport and Kenyan culture.

President William Ruto had earlier signalled plans to host a Manchester United and Arsenal friendly at the same venue. That left many Kenyans wondering whether the match would ever happen.

Murkomen's latest remarks have given supporters fresh hope. Both clubs command huge followings in Kenya and fans are eager to watch their favourite English stars play on home soil. Nothing has been confirmed officially yet for the Arsenal and United clash.

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