Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has revealed why he has remained committed to the Kenya national team despite a difficult working environment and growing concerns over the management of the side.
The South African coach has faced a turbulent period, with players recently boycotting training over unpaid allowances. McCarthy has also disclosed that members of his technical team are still awaiting outstanding salaries, while his own work permit remains unresolved despite having been in charge since March 2025.
Despite the frustrations, McCarthy says walking away has not been his priority.
McCarthy wants to be part of the solution
According to McCarthy, his desire to help bring about meaningful changes within the national team setup is one of the main reasons he has continued in the role.
The former Bafana Bafana striker questioned why coaches and players should continue working under contractual arrangements that are not being fully honoured.
McCarthy also stressed that passion for football cannot replace the basic financial responsibilities that come with professional employment.
He believes the current situation has reached a point where the federation needs to take responsibility and address the concerns raised by both the coaching staff and players.
Coach calls for accountability
McCarthy says he has repeatedly raised the same issues during meetings with football administrators, but believes promises have not always translated into action.
He hopes the current pressure can lead to meaningful accountability and improvements in how the national team is managed.
The coach also pointed to Africa’s enormous football potential, arguing that stronger administration and better management could help national teams make greater progress.
For McCarthy, improving the structures around Harambee Stars appears to be just as important as what happens on the pitch.
Harambee Stars face Eritrea test
The latest developments come at a crucial moment for Kenya, with Harambee Stars preparing to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Eritrea at Nyayo Stadium.
The team’s preparations have been disrupted by the training boycott, meaning McCarthy’s squad had only one training session on Friday before the upcoming qualifier.
That leaves the coach with a difficult balancing act: dealing with unresolved issues away from the pitch while preparing his players for an important international fixture.
For now, McCarthy remains in the job and is determined to see whether the current challenges can become a catalyst for change within the Harambee Stars setup.
