Benni McCarthy, the former Manchester United first-team coach, has emerged as a strong contender for the position of head coach for the Harambee Stars, Kenya’s national football team. The South African football legend, known for his stellar career as a striker and his coaching expertise, faces the prospect of a significant reduction in earnings if he takes up the role.
McCarthy’s tenure at Manchester United between July 2022 and June 2024 saw him earn an impressive salary. As part of Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff, he was responsible for refining the skills of the club’s forwards. His reported weekly earnings at the Premier League side were approximately £40,000, translating to a monthly income of £160,000 and an annual salary of £1.9 million. Over the two years, McCarthy earned a total of £3.8 million, placing him among the well-compensated professionals in football coaching.
In contrast, the Harambee Stars role is expected to come with a considerably smaller paycheck. Reports suggest McCarthy has agreed to a two-year deal with a monthly salary of Ksh2.2 million, which equates to Ksh26.4 million annually. This amount is roughly equivalent to what McCarthy earned in a single month during his time at Manchester United. The stark difference in remuneration highlights that his decision to consider the Kenyan role is likely not driven by financial incentives but rather by a desire to take on a new challenge and make a meaningful impact on the international stage.
This would not be McCarthy’s first experience with modest earnings compared to the Premier League. Before joining Manchester United, he held coaching positions at Cape Town City and AmaZulu in South Africa, where his salary was in a similar range to what is being offered for the Harambee Stars role. His willingness to work in such conditions demonstrates a commitment to developing football in regions that may not have the financial resources of Europe’s top leagues.
McCarthy’s potential appointment as Harambee Stars coach comes at a time when the team is seeking a revival. Kenya’s footballing fortunes have been inconsistent, and the national team has struggled to make a significant impact on the continental and global stages. McCarthy’s experience, both as a player and a coach, could provide the technical expertise and inspiration needed to uplift the team’s performance.
As a player, McCarthy enjoyed a highly successful career, representing clubs such as FC Porto and Ajax Amsterdam. He remains South Africa’s all-time leading goal scorer and is remembered for his pivotal role in helping Porto win the UEFA Champions League under the management of José Mourinho. Transitioning to coaching, McCarthy brought the same passion and tactical acumen that defined his playing days, earning recognition for his ability to develop attacking talent.
Should McCarthy take on the Harambee Stars role, he would bring a wealth of experience from working at one of the world’s biggest football clubs. His time at Manchester United not only enhanced his coaching credentials but also exposed him to the highest levels of football management. This expertise could prove invaluable in shaping Kenya’s footballing future.
However, the challenges ahead are significant. The Harambee Stars will require strategic planning, effective talent development, and consistent performances to rise in the ranks of African football. McCarthy’s ability to inspire players and instill discipline and tactical awareness will be crucial in achieving these goals.
The decision to accept a role with a significantly lower salary underscores McCarthy’s dedication to the sport and his willingness to contribute to its growth in less prominent footballing nations. If appointed, his tenure could mark the beginning of a transformative era for Kenyan football, providing the team with the leadership and vision needed to compete at higher levels.
In summary, Benni McCarthy’s potential move to coach the Harambee Stars represents a shift from the financial rewards of top-tier football to a more purpose-driven endeavor. It highlights his passion for the game and his commitment to making a difference in the footballing world, regardless of the financial implications.
