)
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has explained why he is leaning more towards the managerial style of Carlo Ancelotti to achieve his objectives with the Kenya National Side.
As Kenya prepares for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 and looks ahead to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, tournaments the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania, Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy is shaping his managerial philosophy by learning from some of the best minds in modern football.
In a recent interview with Sporty TV, McCarthy, who was previously assistant coach at Man United under Erik Ten Hag highlighted former Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti and his successor and rising star Xabi Alonso as key figures influencing his approach to leadership and team management.
“If you look at modern-day football, I think Don Carlo Ancelotti is the prime example,” McCarthy said.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
)
13:30 - 15.06.2025
Our Athletes Deserve Better - Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone's Coach Slams Grand Slam Track Cancellation
Bob Kersee has voiced frustration over the cancellation of the LA Grand Slam Track Meet.
“He oozes respect, and the players respect him a lot.”
Ancelotti is So Composed - Benni McCarthy
)
McCarthy, himself a former international striker and UEFA Champions League winner, emphasized the importance of composure and trust in successful coaching.
He praised Ancelotti’s ability to maintain authority while allowing players to express themselves on the pitch.
“He’s aging very well, and he hasn’t lost touch with players. That’s something I’m learning to balance — discipline with freedom.”
Xabi Alonso’s Understanding of The Game
)
Looking to the future of football management, McCarthy also singled out Xabi Alonso, who has quickly become one of the most admired young coaches in Europe after leading Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten domestic season.
“Xabi Alonso is someone I played against when I was coming through, and now he’s doing incredibly well,” McCarthy noted.
“Players want to play for him because they know he understands the game. He’s got his rules, his discipline — but also gives them freedom.”
)
18:00 - 16.06.2025
Benni McCarthy: FKF President Explains How Harambee Stars Coach Can Leave Amid Orlando Pirates Links
FKF president Hussein Mohammed has revealed what the contract of Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy says about a possible exit following links to Orlando Pirates.
According to McCarthy, this blend of structure and expression is the key to building a team that is both unified and confident.
He believes that allowing players to be themselves, within a strong tactical framework, will unlock Kenya’s full potential on the continental stage.
“When players feel they can be themselves, the sky’s the limit,” he added.
McCarthy: My Players Can Come to Me With Anything
)
Beyond learning from others, McCarthy has also looked inward, using lessons from his own playing career to guide how he interacts with players.
“I wasn’t the easiest player myself,” he admitted. “I had my faults. So I try to be the kind of manager I would have loved to play for — someone you can talk to, someone who understands players.”
His player-first philosophy emphasizes open communication and mutual respect, without compromising on discipline and standards.
“I manage players a little like a friend — but they also know why they're there. The door is wide open for any issues, but we live by a certain code,” he explained. “If you think you’re bigger than the team, you just won’t get selected. But if you respect the rules, you’ll thrive — and we’ll have fun too. I even allow my players to go out... as long as they invite me!”
)
17:30 - 16.06.2025
FKF Boss Addresses Confusion Over Harambee Starlets Coach Beldine Odemba
FKF President Hussein Moahmmed has shed light on the confusion surrounding Harambee Starlets coach, despite recent speculation, as the team continues their CECAFA Women's Championships journey.
McCarthy believes this mix of approachability, accountability, and freedom is what builds a winning culture. He’s confident that when players feel understood and trusted, they perform at their best — and want to be part of something bigger than themselves.
“When players can be themselves within a structure, the sky’s the limit.”
As Kenya eyes its first major breakthrough in African football, McCarthy’s evolving managerial style — rooted in experience, empathy, and inspiration from top-level mentors — could be the formula that propels the Harambee Stars to new heights.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)