Benni McCarthy’s appointment as the new coach of Harambee Stars has generated considerable excitement and anticipation ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With his wealth of experience in African football, there are high expectations that McCarthy will bring a new dynamic to the team. However, his focus on discipline, a new playing style, and a shift in mentality could result in significant changes to the squad, with certain players facing uncertain futures under his leadership.
1. Anthony Akumu
Anthony “Teddy” Akumu has been a fixture in the Harambee Stars squad under former coach Engin Firat. His defensive midfield role was deemed vital, often starting even when he wasn’t in peak form at his club, Sagan Tosu in Japan. However, Akumu’s lack of game time, following his move to Iranian side Kheybar Khorramabad, places his spot at risk. Although he had a strong start at his new club, his recent struggles with regular playing time could jeopardize his position, especially with McCarthy expected to favor players with consistent form.
2. Aboud Omar
Aboud Omar, the full-back who played regularly under Firat, might also find himself on the periphery under McCarthy’s reign. While Omar’s performances were generally solid, his disciplinary issues have raised concerns. During the Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar in January 2025, Omar was sent off after a reckless tackle and engaged in a confrontation with the referee. Such incidents, coupled with his past disciplinary issues, might make it difficult for McCarthy to rely on him in the future. The new coach’s emphasis on discipline may lead to Omar’s exclusion if he fails to demonstrate more composure on and off the field.
3. Patrick Matasi
Patrick Matasi, the experienced goalkeeper, has been under fire for several mistakes that led to calls for his exclusion from the Harambee Stars setup. His performance in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Cameroon was particularly criticized, leading to his removal from the squad for subsequent matches. Despite his vast experience, the 35-year-old could find it challenging to reclaim his position under McCarthy. The new coach may prefer to explore other goalkeeping options, particularly if Matasi’s form does not improve, making his inclusion in future squads uncertain.
4. Kenneth Muguna
Kenneth Muguna, a key player for Kenya Police, was another regular under Firat, but his role in the team may come under scrutiny with McCarthy at the helm. While Muguna is best known for his box-to-box style of play, Firat sometimes deployed him as an advanced midfielder, which didn’t bring out his full potential. McCarthy’s preference for attacking football and specialist No.10s could make it harder for Muguna to retain a prominent role, especially with other midfielders vying for a starting spot. Competition for places in central midfield will be fierce, and Muguna will need to prove his adaptability and creativity to stay in the squad.
5. Masoud Juma
Masoud Juma, a striker who moved to Iranian club Esteghalal in December 2024, is another player whose position could be in jeopardy. Juma’s time at Esteghalal has been disappointing, with limited game time and just one goal scored in his first three appearances. Since the departure of the club’s coach, Pitso Mosimane, Juma’s playing time has dwindled further, with the striker managing only a few substitute appearances in the last few weeks. McCarthy is expected to adopt a fresh approach, and with Juma struggling for game time at club level, his chances of making the national team could be slim unless he can revive his form.
Conclusion
As Benni McCarthy begins his tenure as Harambee Stars coach, several players face the possibility of being left out of the squad. The new coach’s focus on discipline, tactical discipline, and the introduction of fresh faces could lead to a shake-up in the squad, with established players like Akumu, Omar, Matasi, Muguna, and Juma at risk. While these players still have time to prove themselves, they will need to show consistency, discipline, and adaptability to retain their places in the national team under McCarthy’s new regime. The coach’s commitment to youth development and working closely with local coaches to scout emerging talent also signals that change is on the horizon for Kenyan football.
