Football Kenya Federation (FKF) CEO Harold Ndege has expressed confidence in newly appointed Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy, emphasizing that the South African legend’s presence will command respect within the national team dressing room.
Speaking after the official unveiling of the South African, Ndege believes McCarthy’s experience will earn respect from the players he will be leading too.
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“Most of the players, once they see such a figure—and I’m saying this as a former footballer—they’ll be able to respect him. The most important thing for any team within the dressing room is to earn the respect of the football players. I think Benni McCarthy has not only earned the respect of the FKF executive, but I can guarantee you that he’ll earn the respect of a majority of the players from the national team,” said the former Tusker defender.
Speaking on McCarthy’s appointment, Ndege highlighted the former Bafana Bafana and FC Porto striker’s vast experience and ability to motivate players.
“Benni McCarthy brings a lot of experience, a lot of expertise; he brings a lot of motivation. As you can see, he’s already pumped up, he’s ready to be on the field,” Ndege added.
McCarthy, who won the UEFA Champions League with FC Porto and later worked as a first-team coach at Manchester United, is expected to bring a new dynamic to the national team with his first assignment being later this month against Gambia in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
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