Benni Takes Kenya Job | SuperSport
Benni McCarthy has officially been appointed as the new coach of Kenya’s national football team, marking a significant career move just months after his tenure at Manchester United. With only three weeks to prepare the Harambee Stars for vital World Cup qualifiers, McCarthy’s arrival is both a challenge and an opportunity for the team aiming for their first-ever World Cup appearance.
Swift Transition into Role
McCarthy, 47, signed a contract with the Kenya Football Federation that has been in the works since December. Alongside him are assistant coaches Vasili Manousakis, former Richards Bay coach, and Moeneeb Josephs, a seasoned goalkeeper with experience at South Africa and Orlando Pirates. Their first matches will be against Gambia away and Gabon at home, both pivotal as they stand fourth in Group F with five points, trailing leaders Ivory Coast by five points.
Preparing for World Cup Qualifiers
The exact dates and venues for these qualifiers are yet to be announced, but these games are crucial for Kenya’s aspirations. With six qualifiers remaining, time is of the essence for McCarthy to instill a winning mindset. His previous coaching success—particularly with AmaZulu, where he elevated the club from relegation to a second-place finish—demonstrates his ability to turn teams around quickly.
Kenya is also gearing up to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Tanzania and Uganda, a step toward solidifying their footballing future after failing to qualify for the 2025 finals in Morocco.
Legacy and Impact
As the ninth South African to coach a foreign national team, McCarthy continues a growing trend among South African coaches. His extensive playing background, which includes winning the UEFA Champions League with Porto, enhances his credibility. McCarthy holds the record for the most goals scored for Bafana Bafana, with 31 goals, underscoring his connection to soccer in South Africa.
In conclusion, McCarthy’s hiring presents a fresh start for Kenya’s national team, emphasizing a commitment to improvement and success on the global stage. As preparations intensify, fans and stakeholders alike should rally behind the Harambee Stars for this critical journey.
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