A former Harambee Stars midfielder has come out in support of South African legend Benni McCarthy following a challenging start to his tenure as Kenya national team head coach.
McCarthy, who took over the reins in March 2025 after nearly a year without a job following his departure from Manchester United in June 2024, is still in search of his first win with Kenya.
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The former Bafana Bafana striker has overseen three matches so far. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March, Kenya suffered a defeat to Gabon and managed only a draw against Gambia.
Most recently, McCarthy's team played to a disappointing goalless draw against low-ranked Chad in a friendly game held in Morocco on Saturday.
With no victory yet under his leadership, the 47-year-old tactician has faced criticism from some former players and pundits.
Despite a tough start, Harambee Stars legend James Situma has called for patience as he expressed confidence that McCarthy will soon steer the team in the right direction.
"I saw the boys dominated the game which means that every player on the pitch wanted to win, but we have to understand that the coach is undergoing a building process and his players need to adapt to his style of play before we start enjoying results," Situma said, according to Citizen Digital.
"He has made so many changes in the squad and so it is work in progress. So far so good because Benni came while the league is almost winding up, and so he needs time to have a look at our local players and select his own players who will fit into his philosophy without struggle.
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"Yes, I am optimistic we have talents and according to history, at home, we have been doing well in Cecafa tournaments when we host and so CHAN will not be an exception. We will do well."
Kenya will face Chad again on Tuesday in their second friendly match at the Marrakech Stadium, where McCarthy will be hoping to register his first win and lift the spirits of the Kenyan faithful.
Photo Cred: Harambee Stars
