Several Manchester United players have congratulated Benni McCarthy following his appointment as the head coach of Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars.
McCarthy, 47, was officially unveiled on Monday, March 3, after signing a two-year contract that will see him lead the team through the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers and preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host.
Before taking on his new role, McCarthy served as Manchester United’s first-team coach, specializing in attacking play under manager Erik ten Hag between July 2022 and June 2024. His influence at the club saw several players take to social media to celebrate his new role.
United captain Bruno Fernandes was among the first to comment on McCarthy’s Instagram post, where he announced his new position, saying: “Well deserved bro. Best luck in the world.”
Former United forward Anthony Elanga, now at Nottingham Forest, also chimed in with: “Deserved musutuuu.” Meanwhile, Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez added: “Hits on bro! You deserve the best.”
Beyond Manchester United, McCarthy’s appointment received recognition from other notable football personalities. Mozambique defender Edmilson Dove, South African forward Percy Tau, and football pundit Robbie Savage—whose son Charlie played in United’s youth ranks during McCarthy’s tenure—also shared their well wishes.
Renowned South African coach Pitso Mosimane praised McCarthy, stating: “Benni in the 18 area! Congratulations and I wish you all the best. You have the experience and knowledge of the game. You have played and coached at the highest level. I only hope Kenya will be patient with you and not expect a quick fix.”
McCarthy has wasted no time getting to work, attending a local league fixture this week to assess players. His first test as Harambee Stars coach will come later this month when Kenya faces Gambia and Gabon in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
