The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has dismissed speculation surrounding the future of national team coach Benni McCarthy, amid media reports in South Africa suggesting a possible return to the Premier Soccer League.
With the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) just weeks away, uncertainty emerged over McCarthy’s commitment after several outlets linked the former Manchester United striker coach to top South African sides, including Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
The rumors prompted concern in Kenya about a potential early termination of his contract.
Addressing the growing speculation, FKF President Hussein Mohammed moved to reassure supporters and affirm the coach’s continued involvement with the Harambee Stars.
“McCarthy is fully committed to his mission with the Harambee Stars and is currently preparing for the CHAN tournament scheduled for August,” he told Citizen TV.
Though Mohammed acknowledged that the contract allows for an early exit, he stressed that any departure would follow a clear and regulated process.
“We have a clear agreement in the contract: either party must give notice if they wish to terminate the contract.
The notice period is short, approximately two to three months,” he explained, adding that there is “a very clear exit plan.”
McCarthy, who assumed his role earlier this year, is under contract through the conclusion of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
His appointment was widely seen as a statement of intent by the FKF, aiming to elevate Kenya’s status on the continental stage.
When pressed about the coach’s remuneration, Mohammed declined to provide specifics, citing confidentiality.
“He is employed like any other professional and his remuneration conditions are personal to him. Unless he consents, we cannot publicly discuss his salary,” he said. Commenting on claims that McCarthy earns 8 million Kenyan shillings per month, he was emphatic: “The figures circulating are inaccurate. It would be better if it came from him directly.”
Despite the off-field noise, McCarthy remains focused on the upcoming CHAN campaign.
Kenya has been drawn into a demanding group that includes Morocco, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, and Zambia.
For the South African tactician, the tournament presents an opportunity to quieten speculation through performance and results.
As preparations intensify, the FKF’s stance suggests full backing for McCarthy, trusting that his leadership can steer the Harambee Stars toward a competitive showing on home soil and reaffirm the coach’s place at the helm of Kenyan football.
