Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy, with a net worth estimated at $16 million, is rewriting the story of Kenyan football.
The former South African international striker and Champions League winner officially took charge of the national team in March 2025 on a two-year deal.
His mission is clear—guide Kenya through major competitions, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
Fans have already noticed his impact. With disciplined tactics and renewed belief, Harambee Stars have shown fight, resilience, and ambition under his early leadership.
Who is Benni McCarthy?
Benni McCarthy is a former South African international striker and one of Africa’s most accomplished footballers. Born in Cape Town in 1977, he became South Africa’s all-time leading scorer with 31 goals in 79 appearances.
McCarthy is best known for winning the 2004 UEFA Champions League with FC Porto under José Mourinho, making him the only South African to achieve the feat.
After retiring, he transitioned into coaching, managing Cape Town City and AmaZulu before joining Manchester United’s backroom staff under Erik ten Hag.
In March 2025, he was appointed head coach of Kenya’s Harambee Stars on a two-year deal. His leadership emphasizes discipline, passion, and tactical awareness, bringing fresh hope to Kenyan football.
McCarthy’s Journey to Harambee Stars
Benni McCarthy is South Africa’s most celebrated football export. He remains the country’s all-time top scorer with 31 goals and is the only South African player to lift the UEFA Champions League trophy, achieved with FC Porto in 2004.
Before moving to Kenya, McCarthy built an impressive coaching portfolio. He managed Cape Town City, guiding them to a trophy in his debut season, and later revitalized AmaZulu, steering them into continental football. His international exposure grew when he joined Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff at Manchester United, working closely with elite players and gaining valuable European experience.
This unique blend of African and European coaching knowledge prepared him well for the Harambee Stars challenge. His appointment was greeted with optimism, with many believing his winning mentality could finally put Kenya on the continental football map.
Coaching style and philosophy
Benni McCarthy’s coaching style has already made Harambee Stars tougher to beat. Inspired by his mentor José Mourinho, he emphasizes tactical discipline and defensive structure. His approach focuses on making the team compact, hard-working, and able to adjust in difficult situations.
During the African Nations Championship (CHAN), McCarthy showed his adaptability when Kenya went down to 10 men against Morocco yet still defended their lead and held on for a remarkable 1–0 win. He also puts players at the center of his philosophy, boosting confidence and instilling a winning mindset.
McCarthy believes in passion on the pitch, telling players that football is not just about talent but also desire, fight, and team spirit. His methods are already visible in how the Harambee Stars play with intensity and belief.
Performance at the African Nations Championship
Since his appointment, McCarthy has taken charge of the Harambee Stars in the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024). Kenya registered impressive results against strong teams like DR Congo, Angola, and Morocco.
A key part of his preparation was starting a local-based training camp in March to scout and develop homegrown talent. McCarthy openly praised the quality of Kenyan players, boldly stating that they could match the standards of nations like Spain, England, and France. Such confidence lifted morale and gave players the belief that they can compete with Africa’s best.
His tactical ability shone during high-pressure matches. Kenya’s organization, quick counter-attacks, and ability to adapt to challenges showcased a new identity under McCarthy. These performances built momentum heading into World Cup qualifiers.
Harambee Stars results and fan reaction
In the World Cup qualifiers of March 2025, Harambee Stars showed further progress. Against Gambia, they played out an entertaining 3–3 draw, with goals like Bajaber’s thrilling the crowd at Nyayo Stadium. Supporters rallied behind the team, praising the attacking intent and fighting spirit.
The match against Gabon was another highlight, with fans on social media celebrating the team’s performance despite not getting a win. One supporter wrote: “Harambee Stars played like a team that belongs on the world stage… If football had justice, we’d be celebrating a Kenyan win right now.”
The victory over Morocco at CHAN was especially symbolic. Playing with one man down after a VAR-reviewed red card, Kenya still managed to keep their shape, frustrate the North African giants, and clinch a hard-fought win. This result sent a message that under McCarthy, Kenya could compete with traditionally stronger nations.
Benni McCarthy impact on Harambee Stars
The arrival of Benni McCarthy has signaled a new era for Kenyan football. His blend of European coaching methods and African passion has given the Harambee Stars identity and ambition. Players are showing belief, fans are filling stadiums, and opponents are respecting Kenya more than ever before.
His leadership is also attracting attention beyond the pitch. Young players see him as a role model, while seasoned stars respect his achievements. McCarthy has managed to unify the squad and inspire a culture of accountability.
The long-term target remains the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, where Kenya will play on home soil. If the early signs are anything to go by, Harambee Stars could surprise the continent. McCarthy’s winning mentality and tactical sharpness make him the right man to guide Kenya into a new chapter of football success.
