Kenya’s national team coach, Benni McCarthy, was named Coach of the Month for August by the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK), highlighting his positive impact on the Kenyan national team since taking over in March 2025. A former key player and assistant coach alongside Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, McCarthy has instilled a structured and ambitious playing style in the Harambee Stars, enhancing their competitiveness on the African stage.
Since his appointment, McCarthy has transformed the Kenyan team into a formidable side, remaining unbeaten at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) before exiting with honor in the quarter-finals after a penalty shootout loss to Madagascar. This historic performance earned the South African coach praise for his ability to mobilize a talented local squad and challenge Africa’s top teams.
McCarthy’s success is also based on his selection philosophy focused on team cohesion and deep knowledge of his local players, even at the risk of facing public criticism. He stresses that his work aims primarily for Kenya’s success, favoring players fully committed to the national project[4]. His discipline and experience, notably from his time in South African clubs and international football, strengthen the credibility of his vision.
The Kenya Football Federation has pledged strong support to McCarthy and his players, including substantial bonuses for future successes, especially the historic qualification to the CHAN quarter-finals. Under McCarthy’s leadership, Kenya now aspires to firmly establish itself among Africa’s football powerhouses, targeting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host. This Coach of the Month award is a well-deserved tribute to a promising career and widely recognized leadership at the highest continental level.