The Kenyan midfielder, who made a name for himself at Tottenham and Southampton, remains fond of the Hoops where he spent two seasons.
Signed by Neil Lennon from Belgian side Beerschot, Wanyama became a Parkhead favourite.
He made a significant impact and contributed to Celtic‘s memorable moments, particularly his header against Barcelona in the Champions League.
His successful spell with the Hoops ended with a profitable £12.5 million move to Southampton, netting Celtic a massive profit from their initial £900,000 investment in him.
After that, he followed Mauricio Pochettiono to Spurs and played in the Premier League for a total of seven years.
Nevertheless, his love for Celtic remains unmatched.
Speaking to The East African, he said: “I was treated well in every European club I played for. But I think where I experienced more love was in Celtic.”
The fan support and appreciation clearly left a lasting impression, as he remarked: “The fans there adore me so much. It was a beautiful feeling and experience.”
However, his account of professional football reveals a less glamorous side of the sport.
He explained the transient nature of football and its influence on forming long-lasting friendships.
He said: “Contrary to what many think, football isn’t a sport where you get to make friends.
“The friendship in football is different. Yes, you may get along with fellow teammates, but there isn’t really a time when you can develop a mutual bond with a teammate because of the nature of the sport.”
According to Wanyama, the uncertainty and continuous transitions, whether in terms of clubs or teammates, act as a barrier to fostering close friendships within the sport.
He further elaborated: “One minute you could be playing for this team, and the next you have been sold to a different club, and so you go there to start life anew.
“Or the teammate you thought you were close to moves to another club.”
The demanding nature of the sport seems to leave little room for camaraderie.
“In Europe, no one has time for you,” he said.
This stark reality highlights the importance of family support and bonds outside of professional life.
He said: “and that makes you realise just how important your family is because they will always be there for you.
“This explains why you will always find me in the company of my family members. I am very close to all my siblings.”