Benni McCarthy responds to Kaizer Chiefs coaching speculation

Kenya national team coach Benni McCarthy has addressed growing calls from supporters for him to become the next Kaizer Chiefs head coach, insisting his current focus remains with the Harambee Stars.

Chiefs are in the market for a new permanent coach after ending the tenure of co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef following a difficult 2025/26 campaign.

Although Amakhosi managed to secure a third-place finish in the Betway Premiership, the club opted for another change in the technical department.

The Soweto giants had reportedly been searching for a sole head coach even before Kaze and Ben Youssef departed, following the dismissal of former mentor Nasreddine Nabi in October 2025.

McCarthy has consistently been mentioned among the leading candidates for the role, alongside experienced coaches Manqoba Mngqithi and Pitso Mosimane.

The former Bafana Bafana striker has enjoyed strong backing from sections of the Chiefs fanbase, with many viewing him as the ideal figure to lead the club back to sustained success.

However, McCarthy has made it clear that his immediate priority is Kenya, where he is currently under contract.

Speaking in the April edition of KICK OFF Magazine, the former Manchester United first-team coach distanced himself from the ongoing speculation while leaving the door slightly open for future possibilities.

“For me, my duty is Kenya at the moment because that’s where I have a contract, that’s the team that I coach,” McCarthy said.

He added that Chiefs remain capable of resolving their own challenges and finding the right direction.

“And there, Chiefs have their own problems and once they find solutions to solve those problems, they will.”

“Their management is a big establishment.”

The former Orlando Pirates striker believes the club understands what is required to restore stability and success.

“So I’m sure they will find ways to make things right for the fans, to make things right for the Football Club and everybody involved with Kaizer Chiefs.”

“But for me,” said McCarthy said. 

McCarthy maintained that, for now, he is merely observing developments from the outside.

“As long as it doesn’t concern me, it’s got nothing to do with me. I’m like a fan from the outside,” added the former Manchester United first-team coach.

Still, the 48-year-old stopped short of completely dismissing the possibility of one day taking charge at Naturena.

“But yeah, if it comes to my doorstep, then I will have to deal with it. But for now, it’s nothing to do with me.”