Benni McCarthy a name synonymous with South African football, is set to take on a new challenge as the head coach of Kenya’s Harambee Stars.
The ex-Manchester United first-team forwards coach is poised to be introduced as the new head on Monday, 3 March as per a statement released by the Football Kenya Federation Thursday. The unveiling ceremony will occur at Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) Pavilion at 1:45pm, attended by key FKF officials and other stakeholders.
McCarthy will take over from Francis Kimanzi, who has been serving on an interim capacity since 11 December, following the exit of Turkish tactician Engin Firat.
The South African tactician has already finalized the composition of his backroom staff, blending local coaches with his own trusted picks, one of whom is former South Africa goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs. Nicholas Muyoti and South African Vasili Manousakis are set to be his assistants.
Josephs, a highly regarded figure in South African football, played for Orlando Pirates between 2008 and 2013.
He linked up with McCarthy in 2011 when the prolific striker returned home to play for the Buccaneers.
Together, they enjoyed a successful spell, winning the 2011-12 league title—Pirates’ last league triumph—as well as clinching the MTN8 and Telkom Knockout trophies.
The bond between McCarthy and Josephs extends beyond their playing days.
The duo formed a strong relationship at Orlando Pirates, where McCarthy’s leadership on the pitch complemented Josephs’ goalkeeping prowess.
Their connection deepened further as they transitioned into coaching, with Josephs working in various technical roles, including a stint as a goalkeeper coach.
From his roots in Cape Town to his successful playing career in Europe and his subsequent transition to coaching, McCarthy’s journey is a testament to his passion and dedication to the sport.
Early Life and Playing Career:
Born Benedict Saul McCarthy on 12 November, 1977, in Hanover Park, Cape Town, South Africa, Benni’s footballing talent was evident from a young age. He began his professional career with Seven Stars in his homeland, quickly making a name for himself as a prolific striker.
His impressive performances earned him a move to Europe, where he played for some notable clubs:
- Ajax (Netherlands): McCarthy’s European adventure began with Ajax, where he showcased his goal-scoring prowess and contributed to their success.
- Celta Vigo (Spain): He then moved to Spain, joining Celta Vigo, where he continued to demonstrate his abilities in a competitive league.
- FC Porto (Portugal): It was at FC Porto under the management of Jose Mourinho that McCarthy achieved his greatest club success. He played a pivotal role in Porto’s historic 2004 UEFA Champions League triumph, scoring crucial goals along the way. He also won two Portuguese league titles.
- Blackburn Rovers (England): McCarthy transitioned to the English Premier League, joining Blackburn Rovers, where he enjoyed a successful spell, becoming a fan favorite.
- West Ham United (England): His Premier League journey continued with West Ham United.
- Orlando Pirates (South Africa): He finished his playing career back in South Africa with Orlando Pirates, winning the South African Premier Soccer League.
International Career:
McCarthy was a key figure in the South African national team, Bafana Bafana. He remains the all-time leading scorer for the national team, netting 31 goals in 79 appearances. He represented South Africa in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups.
Coaching Career:
After retiring from playing, McCarthy transitioned into coaching. His coaching career includes:
- Assistant Coach at Sint-Truiden (Belgium): He gained valuable experience in a European coaching environment.
- Head Coach of Cape Town City (South Africa): He achieved success in his homeland, leading Cape Town City to notable cup runs and playing a very attacking style of football.
- Head Coach of AmaZulu (South Africa): He continued to impress, guiding AmaZulu to a strong finish in the South African Premier Soccer League and qualifying for the CAF Champions League.
- First-Team Coach at Manchester United (England): He joined Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff at Manchester United, specializing in working with the team’s attacking players. This high profile job gave him experience at the highest level of club football.
The Harambee Stars Challenge:
Now, McCarthy 47, is set to embark on a new chapter as the head coach of the Harambee Stars. His first test will come on 17 March, when Kenya plays Gambia away, followed by a home fixture against Gabon on 24 March.
The team is expected to enter camp in early March in preparation for these crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
He has been handed a contract running through the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which conclude on 13 October. FKF will then decide whether to extend his tenure based on performance, or seek a new head coach.
Harambee Stars currently sit fourth in group ‘F’ with five points after four matches. Cote D’Ivoire tops the group with 10 points followed by Gabon (nine), Burundi (seven), Gambia (three), and Seychelles, who remain pointless.
