Benni McCarthy Sets Sights on Leading Kenya to World Cup Qualification
Newly appointed Kenya national team head coach, Benni McCarthy, is determined to guide the Harambee Stars to their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance. The former South African footballer, who signed a two-year contract, believes Kenya has the potential to exceed expectations and qualify for the 2026 World Cup. His first task will be leading the team in crucial qualifiers against The Gambia and Gabon this month. McCarthy, 47, replaces interim coach Francis Kimanzi and is expected to bring his vast experience to Kenya’s campaign. Aware of the tough competition, he emphasized that with the right mindset, commitment, and tactical discipline, Kenya could still make history despite currently being fourth in their qualifying group. Only the top team in each group secures automatic qualification, while four of the best runners-up will get a second chance through play-offs.
McCarthy's coaching career has been shaped by his time working with top managers like José Mourinho and Erik ten Hag. As a player, he enjoyed a decorated career in European football, winning league titles with Ajax and Porto, as well as lifting the 2004 UEFA Champions League trophy. After retiring, he took on coaching roles with Cape Town City, AmaZulu, and most recently, Manchester United, where he was part of Ten Hag’s backroom staff. Speaking about his new role, McCarthy said he felt it was the right time to take charge of a team and contribute to the growth of African football. He expressed a deep appreciation for the continent, stating that his new role is an opportunity to give back. His appointment comes at a time when Kenyan football is undergoing restructuring under a new administration, led by former Inter Milan midfielder McDonald Mariga as vice president of the national football federation.
Kenyan football has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a FIFA suspension in 2022 due to governance issues. However, with McCarthy at the helm, there is renewed optimism for a fresh start. He has vowed to instill a winning mentality in his players, ensuring they embody the hard-working and passionate spirit of Kenya. He describes himself as a "serial winner" who expects his team to give their all on the pitch. With Kenya set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tanzania and Uganda, McCarthy’s long-term goal is to build a competitive squad that can perform on both the continental and global stage. As the Harambee Stars prepare for their upcoming fixtures, the focus will be on executing McCarthy’s vision and proving that Kenya is ready to compete at the highest level.
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