Benni McCarthy confirmed as new Kenya head coach

Benni McCarthy has been officially named the new head coach of the Kenya national football team.

The 47-year-old has signed a contract with the Kenya Football Federation, finalizing a deal that had been on the table since December.

Joining McCarthy’s backroom staff are Vasili Manousakis, former Richards Bay coach, and Moeneeb Josephs, an ex-South Africa and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper, both of whom will serve as assistant coaches.

Additionally, Pilela Maposa has been appointed as the team’s Performance Analyst. The entire technical team has signed two-year contracts, aiming to revamp Kenya’s approach as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures.

McCarthy’s first challenge will be guiding Kenya through the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Their next matches include an away clash against Gambia and a home fixture against Gabon, with exact dates and venues yet to be confirmed.

Kenya currently sits fourth in Group F with five points, trailing leaders Ivory Coast by five. With six qualifiers remaining, these games will be crucial in their bid for a maiden World Cup appearance.

McCarthy takes on this role nine months after leaving Manchester United, where he was part of Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff.

As a manager, he previously led Cape Town City and AmaZulu, notably steering the latter from a relegation battle to a remarkable second-place finish in the 2020-21 Premier Soccer League season.

During his playing career, McCarthy achieved legendary status, becoming the only South African to win the UEFA Champions League with Porto.

He remains Bafana Bafana’s all-time leading goal scorer, with 31 international goals to his name.