Former Bafana Bafana star and South African football icon Benni McCarthy is set to take on a new challenge as the head coach of the Kenya national team. Reports from Kenya indicate that McCarthy is on his way to Nairobi to finalise the deal, with an official unveiling scheduled for Friday.
McCarthy’s Job Search After Manchester United Exit
Following his departure from Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff at Manchester United at the end of last season, McCarthy has been actively seeking his next managerial role. His name has been linked with various clubs in South Africa and the United States, but no concrete offers materialised.
At one point, he was considered a candidate to replace Rulani Mokwena at Mamelodi Sundowns before Manqoba Mngqithi was ultimately appointed as head coach. Despite this, McCarthy remained a topic of discussion regarding possible coaching opportunities in the Betway Premiership.
Why Benni McCarthy Is Not Fit for a Domestic Club in South Africa
McCarthy himself has made it clear that he is not interested in managing just any club in South Africa. In December, he stated that he would only consider returning if offered a job by one of the country’s “big three” clubs — Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, or Mamelodi Sundowns. Since those positions were not available, he had to look elsewhere for opportunities.
“I love South Africa, I love our football, but I’m probably never going to manage there unless it is your Richards Bay, your AmaZulu, your Cape Town City,” McCarthy previously said. His reluctance to coach outside the country’s top clubs has made it difficult for him to secure a domestic appointment.
Additionally, McCarthy’s coaching style and ambitious nature may not align well with the structure of many South African clubs, particularly those with financial or administrative instability. His high-profile status and experience at Manchester United also mean he expects a level of professionalism and investment that only a handful of clubs in South Africa can provide.
McCarthy’s Role in Kenya’s Football Project
McCarthy is expected to play a key role in revitalising Kenyan football, especially as the Harambee Stars prepare to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania. Kenya has struggled in previous Afcon tournaments, failing to progress beyond the group stages. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to help the national team become more competitive on the continental stage.
Reports suggest that former Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs will be part of McCarthy’s coaching staff, alongside Cape Town Spurs assistant coach Vasili Manousakis. Their collective experience could provide the foundation needed to take Kenyan football to the next level.
Kenya is currently ranked 108th in the world and is gearing up for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gabon next month. A source told NTV Kenya that McCarthy’s arrival is highly anticipated, with expectations that he will instil a winning mentality in the team.
Also Read: Benni McCarthy Clarifies Rumours About Mamelodi Sundowns Job
While McCarthy’s coaching ambitions may not align with the current landscape of South African club football, his appointment as Kenya’s head coach presents an exciting opportunity for both parties. With his vast experience and proven track record, McCarthy has the potential to make a significant impact on Kenyan football as they look to establish themselves as a force in African football.
