South African football legend Benni McCarthy has vowed to restore Harambee Stars to their former glory, promising to make Kenya a powerhouse in African football.
Speaking during his official unveiling as the new national team head coach, McCarthy expressed his excitement about the challenge ahead and his belief in the team’s potential.
“It’s been an absolute privilege and pleasure to be here in Kenya. I am delighted and I can’t really wait to start our new journey… making Kenya again one of the powerhouses in Africa,” McCarthy said.
The 47-year-old, who won the UEFA Champions League with Porto in 2003, brings vast experience from his playing and coaching career, having worked with top clubs like Ajax, Blackburn Rovers, and most recently, Manchester United as a forwards coach.
He emphasized that he will use his expertise to elevate the team’s performance on the continental stage.
“With all that experience that I have gained before, and to be here in Kenya, I want to take all that experience and make Kenya the best team in the region,” he added.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed backed McCarthy’s appointment, stating that the federation was convinced he was the right man to lead Harambee Stars.
“He has fire in his belly… very competitive and really wants to win. He is as Kenyan as it gets and understands the African culture. The South African culture and that of Kenya are not that different. We believe that given the experience that he has and with the right support, we will go all the way,” Mohammed said.
McCarthy’s unveiling comes at a crucial time as Kenya prepares for the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Gabon on March 24. It will be the team’s first home match in Kenya since 2022, marking a significant return to Nyayo Stadium.
Additionally, McCarthy will oversee preparations for the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania in August.
The South African tactician has signed a two-year contract until 2027, aligning with Kenya’s co-hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) that year.
His immediate backroom staff includes assistant coach Vasili Manousakis, goalkeepers coach Moeneeb Josephs, and performance analyst Pilela Maposa.
As McCarthy embarks on his new journey with Harambee Stars, the spotlight is now on whether he can deliver on his ambitious vision and transform Kenya into a dominant force in African football.
