Who is Benni McCarthy?

Former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy [Instagram]

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.

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The ex-Manchester United first-team coach is poised to be introduced as the new head coach of Kenya's national football team on Monday, March 3.

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed the announcement in a statement released Thursday, February 27, revealing that the unveiling will occur at the KICC Pavilion at 1:45 PM EAT, attended by key FKF officials and other stakeholders.

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 November 12, 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 is the all-time leading scorer for the national team, a record that speaks volumes about his impact. 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.

Personal Life:

McCarthy is known for his charismatic personality and his passion for football. He is a respected figure in South African sport and is seen as a role model for aspiring footballers. He is married and has children.

The Harambee Stars Challenge:

Now, McCarthy is set to embark on a new chapter as the head coach of the Harambee Stars. His experience, both as a player and a coach, will be invaluable as he aims to guide Kenya to success. His record of working with attacking players, and his experience at the highest levels of football will be a great asset to the Kenyan national team.