Benni McCarthy’s appointment as Harambee Stars coach sparks debate with fans split on his impact, team selection, and Kenya’s football challenges.
The appointment of Benni McCarthy as Harambee Stars coach has elicited mixed reactions from fans across the country.
Barely two days after the official confirmation and unveiling of the South African at Nairobi’s KICC, fans have let their feelings known regarding Benni McCarthy and the tough task that awaits him.
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One X user, challenged the Champions League winner to get rid of players who are hell-bent to play in Europe, terming the biggest problem in Kenyan football.
“Get rid of ‘wanna go to Europe’ players. They are the biggest problem in Kenya soccer. These are players playing in 3rd rate clubs in Europe.”
As the discussions heated up, a second fan opined: “Kenya’s problem is not coaching but lack of elaborate structures to pick a competitive team.”
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South African Benni McCarthy playfully shares concerns as he takes charge of Harambee Stars
In his acceptance speech, McCarthy promised to work with local coaches to unearth young talent as initially reported by Pulse Sports. The 47-year-old said he will keep tabs on the local players by watching the FKF Premier League. This has prompted a third reaction from a fan saying: “Wishing him all the best,give him latitude and resources to sport real talents in our country and help our national team shine.”
Kenya has been criticised previously for appointing ‘unqualified’ coaches into the role. While McCarthy’s track record as a player and coach is evident, the federation has been urged to be patient and allow McCarthy share his vision with the players in order to take Harambee Stars to the next level. “Accord him the assistance he needs possible and he will take us to another level.”
Benin McCarthy’s first task will be the 2026 World Cup qualifier matches set for mid this month. Harambee Stars is set to face The Gambia away on March 17 before hosting Gabon a week later at the Nyayo Stadium.
All eyes will be on the players McCarthy will call up for his first assignment where he is expected to establish his own philosophy and stamp his authority into the team.
Kenya kicked off their qualification campaign with a 2-1 defeat against Gabon, recovered to beat Seychelles 5-0, drew 1-1 against Burundi and secured a vital 0-0 draw against African champions Ivory Coast.
Kenya are lying fourth in Group F with five points, five less than leaders Ivory Coast, while Gabon are second with nine points and Burundi third with seven points.