Newly appointed Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has been tasked with revitalizing the Kenyan national football team.
Kenyan Premier League tactician Salim Ali has expressed his confidence in newly appointed Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy, believing the South African legend is well-equipped to steer the national team in the right direction.
Ali, the former Mathare United coach, praised McCarthy’s extensive experience, citing his past roles as both a player and a coach.
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Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is among African players plying their trade in Qatar and he also ranks highly when it comes to those earning big money in the Gulf nation.
“The coming of Benni is a good thing for the country because he has a wealth of experience,” Ali stated in an interview with NTV.
McCarthy, who was part of Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff at Manchester United, also boasts managerial stints with South African clubs Cape Town City and AmaZulu.
His appointment has raised hopes for a turnaround in Kenya’s football fortunes, especially with major tournaments on the horizon.
However, Ali emphasized that McCarthy’s immediate focus should not be the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) but rather the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August.
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Harambee Stars players will need a certain skill set to play for new coach Benni McCarthy, according to a Kenyan tactician who has played against him previously.
“There is a lot of expectation, and the immediate goal is not AFCON but CHAN in August,” he noted.
Ali believes that CHAN will serve as a crucial platform for McCarthy to build a strong team ahead of the AFCON tournament, which Kenya will co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
“This tournament is important in how he builds his team for AFCON. I think he has found a very good stepping stone—starting with CHAN, then heading into AFCON, which is the most important thing on his side,” he added.
McCarthy’s first major test as Harambee Stars head coach will come in the form of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia on March 20 and Gabon on March 23.
These matches will offer a glimpse into his tactical approach and whether his influence—especially on the attacking department—can yield immediate results.
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Kenyan and England international Djed Spence is one of the few bright sparks going on right now for Spurs side that is experiencing a slump in form.
Ali remains optimistic about McCarthy’s impact, stating, “If you look at the energy he has, I think he is a coach who will help Kenya, God willing.”
With high expectations and a challenging road ahead, McCarthy’s journey with Harambee Stars is set to begin with intense scrutiny.
However, with his experience and a strategic approach, he has the potential to guide Kenya to new heights in African football.
