Benni McCarthy poised to lead Kenya’s Harambee Stars

Picture: bennimac17/Instagram

In a groundbreaking move that has the potential to transform the future of Kenyan football, Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy is reportedly on the verge of being appointed as the head coach of Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars.

This development marks a pivotal chapter in McCarthy’s coaching journey following his departure from Manchester United after last season, where he was instrumental as a first-team coach, focusing on striker development under former manager Erik ten Hag.

McCarthy’s potential appointment comes at a crucial time for Kenya’s national side, the Harambee Stars, who are eager to restore their prominence in African football. The team missed out on qualifying for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco and currently finds fourth place in their group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, with a modest five points accrued from four matches.

This new coaching role arrives alongside Kenya’s designation as co-host for two important tournaments—the delayed 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which will be held in August alongside Uganda and Tanzania, and the 2027 Afcon. These events underscore the urgency for development within Kenyan football, making McCarthy’s genuine football acumen and experience all the more vital.

Reports of McCarthy stepping into the head coach role first circulated two months ago when the Scottish Sun suggested an imminent announcement in late January. Now, according to the latest from iDiski Times, McCarthy is expected to land in Nairobi this week to finalise the contract, with a formal unveiling by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) anticipated this Friday.

Upon taking charge, McCarthy will have little time to settle in, with upcoming World Cup qualifiers on the horizon against Gambia and Gabon scheduled for March 17 and March 24, respectively. These matches will serve as McCarthy’s initial test in galvanising the team and spearheading their push for international success.

Having made his mark in the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) as a manager for Cape Town City and AmaZulu FC, McCarthy brings a wealth of experience to the role.

His recent experience at Manchester United has further equipped him with invaluable insights into developing attacking talent, which many hope will rejuvenate Kenya’s performance on the continental stage.

As the prospect of McCarthy leading the Harambee Stars gains momentum, enthusiasm among Kenyan football fans reaches a fever pitch, with expectations high that his unique blend of experience and leadership will direct the national team towards a renaissance in African football