Finally, the rumors have been settled and former Bafana Bafana international Benni McCarthy has been unveiled alongside his three assistants to the Harambee Stars technical bench for a contract running two years.
During a press event at KICC today afternoon, the 47-year -old Ex-Porto, Westham, Celta Vigo and Orlando Pirates striker expressed his belief on the new project and his desires to build a competing team in the continent.
“It is an absolute privilege and pleasure for me to be here in Kenya and to be surrounded by this great people. I cannot wait to start this journey of making Kenya one of the football powerhouses,” said the South African legend with 31 goals to his name in almost 80 caps for the national team.
McCarthy added; “I have studied the talent in this country, and I believe there is immense potential to compete at the highest level. I look forward to working with the players, the federation, and the passionate Kenyan fans to achieve success,” stated the immediate former Manchester United strikers coach.
Alongside his coaching staff which include; Vasili Manousakis (First Assistant), Moeneeb Josephs (Goalkeeper Coach), and Pilela Maposa (Performance Analyst), the Ex-Amazulu FC tactician expressed his desire to build an identity in the brand of football.
“Together with my coaching team, we are committed to building a structured, disciplined, and competitive squad. Our goal is to develop a strong team identity, play exciting football, and make the nation proud.”
On his part, FKF President Hussein Mohammed was happy to have had his conversations with McCarthy believe that he was the right fit for Harambee Stars. “After a rigorous selection process, we are confident that Benni McCarthy is the right person to lead our national team forward.
His experience, vision, and commitment to developing Kenyan football align perfectly with our ambitions.
Alongside him, we welcome his support team that brings a wealth of expertise, and we believe they will instill tactical discipline, structure, and a winning mentality as we prepare for upcoming competitions.”
The FKF boss also stated with finality; “Nobody in my administration will interfere with Harambee Stars technical bench.”
McCarthy and his team will immediately take charge as Kenya prepares for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.
He is a former UEFA Champions League winner with FC Porto under former Chelsea FC and Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho.
The full team of the new national team and his bench runs up to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
