Benni McCarthy Reveals What Makes Aldrine Kibet Special Ahead of Harambee Stars Debut

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has lauded 19-year-old midfielder Aldrine Kibet as a player who has already “shown maturity beyond his years” after naming him in his 25-man squad for forthcoming friendlies against Madagascar national football team and Comoros national football team. 

The squad is set to travel to Antalya, Turkey, where Kenya will face Madagascar on 14 November, followed by the Comoros fixture on 17 or 18 November.The Spanish-based youth talent — who plies his trade at Celta Vigo B after rising to prominence during his days at St Anthony’s Boys Kitale — earned his senior national call-up amid a wave of excitement.

 “I want to see hunger, speed and intelligence — that’s why players like Aldrine Kibet are here. He’s creative, disciplined and plays with purpose. He deserves this chance,” McCarthy told The Star. 

For McCarthy, Kibet’s selection is not just about rewarding talent but aligning with a broader strategy to usher in the next generation of Kenyan football. “These games are part of our long-term project… We’re building a team capable of competing with the continent’s best,” the coach added. 

This call-up marks a significant step in Kibet’s journey, which has already included standout performances for Kenya’s U18 and U20 sides. As he prepares to step into senior international football, McCarthy believes the midfielder has the foundational traits to flourish.

With camp scheduled to convene in early November, all eyes will be on the training ground as Kibet integrates with senior team veterans. For Kenyan football, his emergence signals more than just a debut — it suggests a renewed vision, where youth, purpose and identity are intertwined.

The coach praised the young talent, adding, "Kibet has shown maturity beyond his years. He’s creative, disciplined and plays with purpose. He deserves this chance."

The squad also features the return of several established players. Zamalek defender Baron Ochieng' has been recalled following a strong run of form in Egypt, while Nairobi United's Ovella Ochieng' makes a welcome return, adding pace to the attack.

The team's core remains intact, with captain Michael Kibwage leading the defence, Duke Abuya in midfield, and Byrne Omondi between the posts. McCarthy emphasized that the selection is about more than just two friendly matches.

"This isn’t just a squad for two friendlies," he explained. "It’s a foundation for future tournaments. We’re building a team capable of competing with the continent’s best."

Since taking the helm in early 2024, McCarthy has focused on instilling a philosophy of high-pressing, possession-based football. "The focus is on discipline and decision-making," he noted. "Now I want to see how the young players adapt alongside the experienced core."

Kibet's call-up was met with widespread excitement, with his club's youth academy congratulating him on social media and describing him as "a bright prospect for Kenyan football." The Harambee Stars are expected to assemble for camp in early November.