Why Odysseus does not want people to know he is back home?

Odysseus wants to keep his return home a secret to assess the situation in Ithaca and deal with the suitors vying for his wife, Penelope. Revealing his presence too soon could jeopardize his plans to reclaim his home and family. Additionally, he seeks to gather information and strategize before confronting the challenges that await him. This cautious approach reflects his clever and strategic nature, as seen throughout his journey.