)
Benni McCarthy’s future as Harambee Stars coach is in doubt amid persistent exit rumors, with top coaching links.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy is facing surprising exit rumors just months into his two-year contract.
Despite managing only two games during the March international break, a thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia and a 2-1 loss to Gabon, speculation is mounting that the Kenyan national football team may depart for greener pastures.
While the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) remains committed to his leadership through the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) cycle, the rumors have persisted.
Pulse Sports takes a look into the top five coaching destinations Benni McCarthy has been linked to, should the Harambee Stars exit materialize.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News
1. Orlando Pirates
)
15:22 - 06.05.2025
Harambee Stars Coach Benni McCarthy Snubs Bafana Bafana As He Declares Allegiance
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has declared his allegiance if Kenya and his beloved South Africa's Bafana Bafana encounter each other.
)
The strongest current rumor links McCarthy to a return to Orlando Pirates, a club where he once dazzled as a player.
With Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro’s exit reportedly looming, the Buccaneers could be eyeing a high-profile replacement.
While Pitso Mosimane and Rulani Mokwena are also in contention, McCarthy’s history and popularity make him a fan favorite.
A return to South African football, especially to a club as prestigious as Orlando Pirates, could be a natural next step for the Harambee Stars coach.
)
18:29 - 06.05.2025
Top 7 Most Humble African Footballers
Discover the top most humble African footballers who combine talent with character, including Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, and Didier Drogba.
2. Bafana Bafana
)
McCarthy is South Africa’s all-time top scorer, and a coaching role with the South African national football team Bafana Bafana has long been considered inevitable.
Following his coaching success with Cape Town City winning MTN8 Cup and leading AmaZulu FC to second in the league, one of their highest ever finish, many expected him to lead the national side.
Though he briefly joined Manchester United as a forwards coach under Erik ten Hag in 2022, the links to Bafana Bafana persisted even after he left the English giants in 2024.
McCarthy's decision to join Kenya temporarily cooled those rumors, but should the Harambee Stars project falter, Bafana Bafana could come up again
)
15:24 - 06.05.2025
Ex-Bayern Munich and Man United Star Explains Why Benni McCarthy Must Succeed with Harambee Stars
Former Bayern Munich and Manchester United midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has given reasons why Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy should bring success to Kenya.
3. Major League Soccer
)
Before accepting the Harambee Stars role, McCarthy reportedly turned down offers from MLS clubs in the United States.
However, his admiration for the league and its growing competitiveness means a future move stateside remains very possible.
If McCarthy’s Kenyan stint ends prematurely, MLS teams may renew their interest in the highly respected coach, especially given his international experience and European pedigree.
)
13:42 - 06.05.2025
Gor Mahia Star Slams 'Low-Profile' Shabana Clash Compared to Mashemeji Derby Against AFC Leopards
Gor Mahia's Austin Odhiambo has hailed Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards terming Shabana as incomparable.
4. Kaizer Chiefs
)
In early 2024, McCarthy was one of the most in-demand coaches in African football, with Kaizer Chiefs being strongly linked to him after his Manchester United exit.
While he ultimately missed out on the role as Nasreddine Nabi was appointed instead, the door isn't entirely shut.
Given the rivalry with Orlando Pirates, and Chiefs' ambition to dominate the top of South African football, McCarthy’s name could resurface if the team struggles under Nabi.
5. A Return to Europe
Having enjoyed successful playing spells with FC Porto, Ajax, and Blackburn Rovers, McCarthy is no stranger to the European football scene.
His coaching credentials were further enhanced with his Manchester United stint, and he’s previously served as an assistant coach at Sint-Truiden in Belgium.
A head coaching role in Europe, particularly in Belgium or the Netherlands, could be on the cards if McCarthy opts to pursue opportunities outside Africa again.
Despite the swirling rumors, Benni McCarthy remains the head coach of Harambee Stars, with crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on the horizon.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)