AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Kenya settle Benni McCarthy’s salary arrears ahead of South Africa double-header

Kenya’s Ministry of Sports has cleared all outstanding salary payments owed to Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy and his technical team ahead of the resumption of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The ministry has also paid the team’s November 2026 salaries ahead of schedule, providing a financial boost to the coaching staff as Kenya prepares for a crucial stage of its qualifying campaign.

AfricaSoccer.com on Tuesday, November 10, reported that McCarthy and his backroom staff had been demanding payment of their outstanding wages ahead of the upcoming international assignment.

The latest development means the former Manchester United striker and his technical team have now received all pending payments, bringing an end to concerns over delayed salaries.

The settlement is expected to provide some stability within the technical department as McCarthy continues his work with the national team.

Kenya face a significant test against South Africa in a doubleheader as the two sides continue their preparations for the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.

The matches will be particularly important for Harambee Stars as they seek to strengthen their position and keep their qualification hopes on track.

McCarthy, who was appointed Kenya head coach in March 2025, is tasked with building a competitive side capable of challenging for a place at the continental tournament.

With the financial issues now resolved, attention will turn to preparations on the pitch as Kenya look to deliver positive results against South Africa.

The timely payment of salaries is also a welcome development for the technical team, allowing McCarthy and his assistants to focus fully on their responsibilities without the distraction of outstanding financial obligations.

Meanwhile, Kenya will co-host the 2027 AFCON alongside Tanzania and Uganda.