A Kenyan football legend has revealed why he was against the appointment of Benni McCarthy as the Harambee Stars head coach.
The Bafana Bafana icon took charge of the Kenya national team in March, following his departure from Manchester United. Since then, McCarthy has been at the helm for four months.
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Upon his arrival, McCarthy brought in three South African staff members, including his trusted former Orlando Pirates teammate and goalkeeper coach, Moeneeb Josephs.
The UEFA Pro Coaching Licence holder mentor has so far overseen two matches. His team suffered a defeat to Gabon and secured a draw against Gambia in 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in March.
Now, ex-Harambee Stars defender Francis Baraza has spoken out, revealing that he opposed McCarthy’s appointment from the beginning, as he was strongly in favour of hiring a local coach instead.
"First of all, before he (McCarthy) was handed the reins, I was against the appointment, I condemned it and said he was not the right fit,” Baraza told Pulse Sports.
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"I was for a local coach who could revolutionize the team past 'friendships' in selection. That is where we go wrong as Kenyans. Give Kenyans the job to do, they have the capabilities.
"I prayed that they give the role to a local coach. To entrust a local coach for this CHAN. Now that he is in charge, let’s give him time. The results will come. I know he will do well," he added.
"We have to give him support, myself included because he has been handed the reins."
