Former Harambee Stars midfielder Simeon Mulama has shared his thoughts on why South African coach Benni McCarthy is the ideal choice to lead Kenya’s national football team. According to Mulama, McCarthy’s international experience and deep understanding of African football make him the missing piece in Harambee Stars’ pursuit of success.
While McCarthy may not have extensive experience coaching a national team, Mulama believes his impressive track record shows that he can adapt quickly and make history with the Kenyan side. Having worked at the highest levels of football, McCarthy possesses the knowledge and expertise required to elevate Harambee Stars to new heights.
Mulama emphasized that Kenya needed a coach with a strong international pedigree and someone who understands the unique challenges of African football. McCarthy, who has played and coached in some of the most competitive environments, fits this profile perfectly. His experience as a first-team coach at Manchester United, where he worked with top talents, adds to his credibility.
Beyond his coaching career, McCarthy enjoyed a highly successful playing career. He remains South Africa’s all-time top scorer with 31 goals and played for clubs such as West Ham United, FC Porto, Ajax Amsterdam, Celta Vigo, Orlando Pirates, and Blackburn Rovers. His exposure to elite football across different leagues gives him an edge in understanding player development and tactical adaptability.
Mulama is confident that under McCarthy’s leadership, Harambee Stars will achieve significant milestones. The South African coach’s ability to relate to players, having played at the highest level himself, will be instrumental in building a strong team culture. His understanding of the demands of modern football will enable him to connect with the squad and implement effective strategies.
One of McCarthy’s key tasks will be strengthening the squad by convincing talented dual-national players to represent Kenya. Players like Linton Maina and Tottenham Hotspur’s Djed Spence have been linked with potential switches, and McCarthy’s reputation could play a role in influencing their decisions.
The newly appointed coach will have his first test in less than two weeks as Harambee Stars begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign. Kenya will face Gambia on March 17 before hosting Gabon on March 24. These matches will provide an opportunity for McCarthy to showcase his tactical approach and begin shaping the team in his vision.
Despite the challenges ahead, McCarthy remains confident about his ability to guide Kenya to its first-ever World Cup qualification. His experience, coupled with his hunger for success, makes him a promising addition to the Harambee Stars setup. If given the necessary support and time, McCarthy could be the game-changer that Kenyan football needs.
