South African legend Benny McCarthy officially named Harambee Star coach

Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed and new Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy after signing of the contract/HANDOUT

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has appointed Benni McCarthy as the new head coach of the Kenya national football team.

FKF said McCarthy, a former South African international and UEFA Champions League winner, will bring a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach.

Joining McCarthy’s technical bench are Vasili Manousakis as Assistant Coach, Moeneeb Josephs as Goalkeepers Coach, and Pilela Maposa as Performance analyst.

The quartet has signed two-year contracts and is expected to bring a fresh approach to the national team setup as Kenya looks ahead to upcoming international fixtures.

FKF President Hussein Mohammed expressed confidence in the new technical team.

"After a rigorous selection process, we are confident that Benni McCarthy is the right person to lead our national team forward. His experience, vision, and commitment to developing Kenyan football align perfectly with our ambitions. Alongside him, we welcome Vasili Manousakis as Assistant Coach, Moeneeb Josephs as Goalkeepers Coach, and Pilela Maposa as Performance Analyst,” Mohammed said in a statement to newsrooms.

Mohammed said believe the four will instill tactical discipline, structure, and a winning mentality as Kenya prepares for upcoming competitions.

McCarthy, making his first statement as Kenya’s head coach, shared his excitement about the role.

"I am honoured to take on this role and excited about the journey ahead with the Kenyan national team. I have studied the talent in this country, and I believe there is immense potential to compete at the highest level. Together with my coaching team, including Vasili Manousakis, Moeneeb Josephs, and Pilela Maposa, we are committed to building a structured, disciplined, and competitive squad,” he said.

He added that their goal is to develop a strong team identity, play exciting football, and make the nation proud. I look forward to working with the players, the federation, and the passionate Kenyan fans to achieve success.

McCarthy and his team will immediately take charge as Kenya prepares for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.