The engine room: five KPL midfielders who are defining the 2025/26 season

Goals and assists grab the headlines. But the KPL's most influential players this season have often been the ones who create the conditions for headlines rather than generating them directly. These five midfielders have been the heartbeat of their clubs — and in several cases, the difference between a genuine title challenge and mid-table anonymity.

1. Michael Olunga-Ochieng — Gor Mahia

The most complete midfielder in the league. Olunga-Ochieng has the defensive discipline to play as a six, the range of passing to operate as an eight, and the goal threat to function as a ten. His season-average of 72 accurate passes per match is the highest in the division. Gor Mahia's unbeaten run of eight matches has coincided almost exactly with his return from injury in April.

2. David Simiyu — Tusker FC

The defensive midfielder who makes Tusker's press function. Simiyu intercepts more than any other player in the KPL this season and has an almost supernatural ability to read second-ball situations. Without him anchoring the base, Tusker's aggressive defensive structure would be an open invitation to be countered.

3. Brian Bosire — Shabana FC

The man most responsible for Shabana's remarkable revival. Bosire operates in the pockets of space between the opposition's midfield and defensive lines, and his ability to receive under pressure, turn, and drive has made Shabana almost impossible to defend in transition.

• 4. Junior Okeyo (AFC Leopards) — eight assists in ten matches since January
• 5. Hassan Odhiambo (KCB FC) — the most fouled player in the KPL, drawing 4.2 fouls per game