Potential Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has previously opened up on his terms for job hunting and what it takes to convince the former Manchester United tactician.
South African football legend Benni McCarthy has emerged as the leading candidate for the Harambee Stars’ head coaching role.
The former Manchester United tactician has been widely reported as Football Kenya Federation’s (FKF) top choice to replace Engin Firat, who departed in 2024, with Francis Kimanzi currently serving on an interim basis.
Interestingly, McCarthy had previously indicated that he was not actively seeking an international managerial role.
South African legend Benni McCarthy has been heavily linked with the Harambee Stars job and here is everything you need to know about the former Bafana Bafana striker.
In a 2024 interview with SuperSport, the soon-to-be Harambee Stars tactician reflected on his attachment to football through television analysis.
“Just SuperSport, you know. I used to do TV analysis when it was Champions League, and I was kind of sad to see it go because we had a really good thing going six years ago,” McCarthy shared when questioned on whether he was back in South Africa at the time for a potential national team coaching job.
He went on to explain his decision to accept a recent television role, emphasizing his passion for staying involved in football.
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“So when the call came, I wasn’t attached to a club—if I was still with Man United, I wouldn’t have been able to do this. But I wasn’t attached to anyone, so in my free time, I was available. They asked the question, and I gladly accepted because it’s what I love,” he said.
“I love being around football, and in the studio, you get to analyze games, give your opinion, and share your tactical awareness—what you’ve caught on from watching the game. I love doing that because it keeps me in the game, and that’s all it is.”
With speculation mounting over his potential appointment to the Kenyan national team, McCarthy’s words offer insight into his coaching philosophy and enthusiasm for the game.
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Should the FKF fast-track his hiring, McCarthy could be in charge for Kenya’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March and the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) set for August.
His experience, both as a decorated player and a tactician, could bring new energy to Harambee Stars.
McCarthy’s tenure at Manchester United, where he worked under Erik ten Hag, gave him exposure to top-level football coaching.
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If appointed, he will be tasked with revitalizing the Kenyan squad and steering them through key international fixtures.
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