‘Under pressure’ Benni McCarthy urged to adopt winning mentality after AFCON title comments

Tusker FC coach Julien Mette has challenged Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy to embrace a winning mentality after the South African suggested that the Harambee Stars could need at least a decade to become serious contenders for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.

McCarthy called for realistic expectations following a difficult international break for Kenya, which was marked by a winless run and a players’ strike over unpaid wages.

The former Manchester United striker argued that Kenya lacked the squad depth of established African football nations such as South Africa and Senegal, suggesting that building a team capable of challenging for major continental honours would take time.

However, Mette offered a contrasting perspective, insisting that ambition and the belief to win should remain central to every coach’s philosophy, regardless of the competition or the quality of the opposition.

Speaking after Tusker began their FKF Premier League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Ulinzi Stars, the Frenchman said teams and national sides should approach every competition with the belief that they can emerge victorious.

“You are in a competition to win it,” Mette said, according to Pulse Sports Kenya.

“Even tomorrow if Kenya plays the World Cup, you have to think that you can win it and tomorrow if Tusker plays the Champions League, you have to think that you can win it because that is the beauty of football.”

Mette’s comments come at a difficult time for Kenyan football, with the national team’s recent struggles and the dispute over unpaid wages raising concerns about the state of the game.

The Tusker coach acknowledged the disappointment among supporters but called on players and coaches to help restore confidence by delivering entertaining football and renewed enthusiasm.

He stressed that those involved in the game had a responsibility to reconnect with fans and make football an enjoyable experience, rather than allowing recent setbacks to undermine their passion.

“We are here to entertain people, that is the basis. Before being coaches or players, we are football fans first and we support a team and good football so now as coaches and players, we have to bring enthusiasm and mentality,” Mette added.

“Regarding the past weeks in Kenya, I think the Kenyan fans are a little disappointed because of many reasons and now it is time for good football.”

Kenya are seeking to strengthen their position in African football under McCarthy, who faces the task of building a competitive side capable of challenging the continent’s established teams.