Benni McCarthy has revealed the quiet secret behind earning deep respect and affection from top players at Manchester United.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy was one of the most loved during his time at Old Trafford and has shared the secret to winning the hearts of players.
Benni McCarthy worked as the attacking coach at Manchester United for two years, from 2022 to 2024, under former manager Erik ten Hag, but his impact is still felt to date by the players.
Manchester United players never shy away from celebrating with Benni McCarthy, and even when he landed his role at Harambee Stars, they were among the thousands who congratulated him.
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Even on his birthday, the players usually shower him with love, something that many modern coaches admire but are yet to crack the code of forming a great relationship with their players.
Benni McCarthy: I’m a people’s person
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Benni McCarthy revealed that he was able to form a great relationship with Manchester United players due to several factors.
According to Benni McCarthy, having undergone the coaching courses, he was able to interact with the players rationally and left his emotions out of the chat.
He added that, having been a coach previously, it was easier to work with players since he had already gained a lot of experience. Having been a player before, most players also recognised him and it was easier to interact with them.
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“Like I said, I’m a people’s person, you know. I’ve educated myself in the coaching front, so I know how to deal with other players' emotions and not let mine overshadow that,” Benni McCarthy said in an interview with Radio 2000.
“I learnt how to make them fit in, and I was a head coach myself before I moved into that role. So, whatever the manager needed from me, I was there to support, and that was part of my job. Some of the players also recognised me from my playing days.”
Benni McCarthy on Marcus Rashford
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When asked about Marcus Rashford’s potential, Benni McCarthy revealed that he is best suited to play as a centre-forward or striker.
However, the South African explained that Marcus Rashford does not fancy playing in that position, but he is aware that to thrive, that is his position.
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“In my honest opinion, I think Marcus is best playing at number nine because he is not the best playing with his back towards the goal,” Benni McCarthy revealed.
“But he is always up against physical players, so the higher you get him on the pitch, the better. Anything behind could mess up with him…he doesn’t like it, but it's his best position and he knows that.”
Benni McCarthy’s secret to maintaining great relationships with players is a testament to his journey from a celebrated striker to a beloved coach.
As he continues his new chapter with Harambee Stars, it is clear that his influence goes far beyond tactics.