Benni McCarthy explains why he does not stay in Kenya between international breaks

Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy says work permit issues prevent him from legally remaining in the country outside international windows.

McCarthy was appointed coach of the Harambee Stars in 2025 and is preparing to lead Kenya into the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

The former South Africa international has faced criticism over his absence from Kenya between national team assignments.

However, McCarthy says he leaves the country after completing his duties because he does not have the necessary legal documentation to remain.

“We sat with the federation about this issue because, for me, that’s the biggest problem,” McCarthy told Kenyan journalist Kevin Teya.

“When I arrived, the federation said they had everything under control and were working on it. But a year and a half later, you get tired of asking. Your words end up falling on deaf ears, and that’s where we are with the federation.”

McCarthy said he was particularly concerned about the possibility of being found in Kenya without the required immigration status.

“I see what goes on around the world regarding immigration and people being undocumented, and it’s horrible – especially for people who look like me,” he said.

The 47-year-old also responded to criticism over his decision not to remain in Kenya between international breaks.

“When I saw those reports yesterday, it hit hard. People wonder why we are never here, but I don’t ever want to be questioned by authorities for being illegal in someone else’s country,” he said.

“So I come here, do my job, and when my job is finished, I get out because I have no legal reason to stay.

“It’s a big problem for me, even if it doesn’t seem like a problem for the people we work for. So far, we’ve just been fortunate that it hasn’t come to light until now.”

McCarthy, who is South Africa’s all-time leading goalscorer, will now turn his attention to Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 AFCON, with the tournament set to be staged in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.