Benni McCarthy Named Harambee Stars Head Coach: A New Era for Kenyan Football

Former Manchester United first-team coach and South African football legend, Benni McCarthy, has been officially appointed as the new head coach of Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars. The announcement was made in Nairobi on March 3, 2025, marking the beginning of a highly anticipated new era for Kenyan football.

A Strategic Appointment

McCarthy, 47, has signed a two-year contract running until 2027, aligning with Kenya’s co-hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania. He replaces interim coach Francis Kimanzi, who had been in charge since the departure of Turkish tactician Engin Firat late last year.

With an impressive coaching background, McCarthy served as a striking coach at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag, helping improve the team’s attacking play. His vast experience as a former South African international, coupled with his managerial success at Cape Town City FC, makes him a valuable addition to the Harambee Stars.

Ambitious Plans for Kenya

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, McCarthy stated, “It’s an absolute privilege to be here in Kenya. I am delighted and can’t wait to start this journey of making Kenya a powerhouse in African football.”

His primary goal is to guide Kenya toward qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Harambee Stars are currently fourth in their qualification group, trailing leaders Ivory Coast by five points, with six matches remaining. McCarthy remains optimistic, emphasizing, “With the right mindset and dedication from the players, we can still qualify and surprise many.”

Experienced Backroom Staff

McCarthy’s coaching staff will include:

• Vasili Manousakis – Assistant Coach
• Moeneeb Josephs – Goalkeepers Coach
• Pilela Maposa – Performance Analyst

This experienced team is expected to bring tactical discipline and a fresh approach to the squad.

Upcoming Challenges

Kenya’s first test under McCarthy’s leadership comes later this month with a crucial World Cup qualifier against The Gambia, followed by a home fixture against Gabon. Additionally, Kenya will co-host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August 2025, offering another opportunity for McCarthy to showcase his coaching expertise on the continental stage.

A Bright Future for Harambee Stars

With McCarthy at the helm, the future looks promising for Kenyan football. His ability to develop young talents, improve attacking strategies, and instill a winning mentality will be key to revitalizing the Harambee Stars.

Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this bold appointment will reshape Kenya’s football landscape, with many hoping McCarthy’s leadership will bring long-awaited success to the nation.