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Former Harambee Stars defender Francis Baraza has admitted he initially opposed Benni McCarthy’s appointment as Kenya’s head coach.
Former Kenya international Francis Baraza has revealed his early skepticism about Benni McCarthy's appointment as the Harambee Stars head coach.
The ex-Harambee Stars defender has shed light on why he was against the South African football legend's appointment.
McCarthy was appointed as the coach of the Kenyan national team on March 3, on a two-year contract.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
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Baraza Explains Benni McCarthy Confliction
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Speaking in an exclusive interview with Pulse Sports, Baraza admitted he was initially against the decision to name the South African legend as Kenya's national team boss.
“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 stated.
The Kenyan tactician emphasized that his preference was for a local coach who could prioritize merit over personal relationships in team selection.
“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.”
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Before McCarthy’s appointment Baraza himself, then interim coach Francis Kimanzi, and ex-national team boss Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee were among the names floated for the position.
Despite the initial disappointment, Baraza has since changed his stance.
Support for McCarthy Ahead of Major Tournaments
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Baraza expressed his desire for a Kenyan coach to lead the team in the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August, which Kenya is set to co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
As the tournament is limited to locally based players, Baraza had hoped it would serve as a platform to elevate local coaching talent.
“I prayed that they give the role to a local coach. To entrust a local coach for this CHAN,” he added.
However, now that McCarthy is at the helm, Baraza has chosen to back him fully.
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“Now that he is in charge, let’s give him time. The results will come. I know he will do well,” he said.
McCarthy's early tenure has included 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier matches against Gambia and Gabon, which ended in a 3-3 draw and a 2-1 loss, respectively.
He is also expected to lead Kenya through the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a joint tournament with Uganda and Tanzania.
Despite the rocky start, Baraza insists it’s time for unity and support behind the coach, stating, “We have to give him support—myself included—because he has been handed the reins.”
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