South African football legend Benni McCarthy is reportedly set to become the new head coach of Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, following discussions with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). The agreement is said to be in place, with McCarthy expected to take over after the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in February.
McCarthy, who is currently without a club after his contract with Manchester United ended in June, has expressed strong interest in managing the Kenyan team. His appointment comes after the resignation of former coach Engin Firat earlier this month, just days after Hussein Mohammed was elected president of FKF. The discussions between McCarthy and FKF have been positive, and reports suggest that McCarthy is excited about the challenge of coaching a national team for the first time in his career.
Although McCarthy has been linked with several managerial roles since leaving Manchester United, including interviews for coaching positions in Major League Soccer (MLS), it seems that he is particularly keen on this opportunity with Harambee Stars. His coaching credentials are solid, having previously managed Cape Town City, where he led the team to victory in the MTN8, and AmaZulu, where he guided the club to qualification for the CAF Champions League. McCarthy’s experience in club football, combined with his reputation for tactical acumen and player development, makes him a strong candidate for the role.
McCarthy’s anticipated arrival has led to the appointment of Francis Kimanzi as interim coach for the Harambee Stars in the lead-up to the Mapinduzi Cup, which begins on January 3 in Zanzibar. Kimanzi, a former Harambee Stars coach, will oversee the team’s participation in the tournament, with McCarthy’s official tenure expected to begin with the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March. McCarthy’s debut match is likely to be an away fixture against Gabon on March 17, with the return leg scheduled for a week later.
McCarthy’s playing career is legendary, with the South African forward representing top clubs in Europe and South Africa, including Ajax, Celta de Vigo, Porto, Blackburn Rovers, and West Ham United. He is perhaps best known for his time at Porto, where he was part of a team that won the 2004 UEFA Champions League under the guidance of Jose Mourinho. During his time at Porto, McCarthy also won two Primeira Liga titles, the Taça de Portugal, and the Intercontinental Cup. His success at club level, particularly with Porto, cemented his reputation as one of the best South African players of his generation.
After retiring from playing, McCarthy transitioned into coaching in 2014, starting as a youth team coach at Hibernian in Scotland. He then moved to Sint-Truiden in Belgium, where he completed his coaching licenses. Over the years, McCarthy has built a reputation for his tactical knowledge and ability to develop players, which has made him a sought-after coaching candidate. His experience at the top levels of both club and international football, combined with his leadership skills, positions him well to take on the challenge of managing the Harambee Stars.
For Kenya, McCarthy’s appointment could mark the beginning of a new era of ambition and professionalism within the national team. The Harambee Stars have faced numerous challenges in recent years, but McCarthy’s experience and tactical approach could help the team achieve greater success on the international stage. His background in both coaching and playing at the highest levels gives him the expertise needed to guide the team through the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and beyond.
McCarthy’s appointment also signals a shift in FKF’s approach to team management, with a focus on bringing in a coach with international experience and a proven track record of success. As the national team prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the hope is that McCarthy can help Harambee Stars reach new heights and restore pride to Kenyan football. With his leadership and vision, the future of the Harambee Stars could be very promising.
