Benni McCarthy is on the verge of becoming the new head coach of the Kenya national team, with the former Manchester United forwards coach expected to arrive in Nairobi on Wednesday.
His official unveiling is scheduled for Friday.
At 47, McCarthy brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and as a coach.
The former South African international remains Bafana Bafana’s all-time leading goal scorer with 31 goals and is the only South African player to have won the UEFA Champions League, lifting the trophy with FC Porto under José Mourinho in 2004.
Coaching experience and tactical vision
Since transitioning into management in 2017, McCarthy has built a solid coaching career.
He previously led Cape Town City and AmaZulu in the South African top flight before joining Manchester United as a forwards coach in 2022.
During his time at Old Trafford, he was credited with playing a key role in the development of Marcus Rashford, who enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career under Erik ten Hag.
Now, McCarthy faces a new challenge as he prepares to take charge of the Harambee Stars, tasked with transforming Kenya’s fortunes on the international stage.
A bold move for Kenya’s Football Federation
The appointment of McCarthy signals the Kenya Football Federation’s (FKF) ambition to elevate the national team.
However, it also presents financial and logistical challenges.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed has emphasized the importance of careful contract management, ensuring the move remains sustainable for Kenyan football.
Kenya is currently striving for a first-ever FIFA World Cup qualification, with crucial fixtures on the horizon.
The Harambee Stars are competing in a highly competitive Group F in the CAF World Cup qualifiers, facing Ivory Coast, Seychelles, Burundi, Gambia, and Gabon.
A race against time for World Cup qualification
Kenya sits fourth in the group with five points, meaning every upcoming match will be crucial in their quest for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
McCarthy will need to establish his tactical philosophy quickly as Kenya prepares for decisive encounters against Gambia and Gabon.
With time against him and expectations high, McCarthy’s appointment marks a turning point for the Harambee Stars.
Whether he can lead Kenya to an unprecedented World Cup qualification remains to be seen, but his arrival certainly brings renewed hope to Kenyan football.
