Zech Obiero Reveals How Benni McCarthy Convinced Him to Join Harambee Stars Camp

Zech Obiero has praised Benni McCarthy’s leadership and vision, saying they motivated him to join the Harambee Stars camp ahead of the FIFA series, with hopes of earning a spot for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Tranmere Rovers attacking midfielder is part of the squad that travelled to Rwanda on March 24 to compete in the FIFA series, where Kenya is in Group A alongside Estonia, Grenada, and hosts Rwanda, with matches scheduled from March 23–31, 2026.

The 21-year-old is eager to make his senior national team debut, having missed out previously at the junior level. In early 2024, Obiero was included in the preliminary Kenya U20 squad ahead of the Four Nations Tournament in Malawi but was ultimately left out of the final travelling roster, as the technical bench opted for mostly domestic-based players.

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Zech Obiero explained that his decision to join the Harambee Stars camp was largely influenced by the presence and leadership of Benni McCarthy.

He described meeting the coach as a significant and inspiring moment, noting that Benni McCarthy’s reputation and experience in football made the interaction an honour.

Zech Obiero added that hearing the coach outline his vision for the national team and his clear plan for guiding the squad was highly motivating, giving him confidence in the direction the team was heading.

He pointed out that such clarity and determination from a manager, combined with the opportunity to represent one’s country, are exactly the kinds of experiences footballers aspire to as they develop their careers.

Zech Obiero emphasised that playing for Kenya remains a dream and that he would approach the chance with gratitude and dedication, viewing it as both a personal milestone and a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the team’s success.

“As we know, Benni is a legend in the football game. Speaking to him was an honour as well. And it's just really encouraging. He's saying what he wants to do with Kenya, where he wants to take us. And that's what you want to hear as a footballer,” Zech Obiero said.

“You want to hear a plan, a clear plan, and just confidence from a manager who's picking you. So that's what made me come here. About moments like that, playing for your country. Every footballer, as they grow up, wants to do those things. If it comes again, I will give glory to God all the time. It'll be a great opportunity to have. So, yeah, we'll see.”

Zech Obiero said that the Harambee Stars squad intends to train intensely as they prepare for upcoming matches, viewing the games as an opportunity to understand the manager’s tactics and observe how the players interact on the field.

He explained that these camps are valuable for building team cohesion, allowing the players to become familiar with each other and develop the chemistry needed to perform well in future fixtures.

Zech Obiero added that representing Kenya has always been a personal ambition, and he expressed his excitement and pride at finally being part of the national team setup.

“Yeah, it's just given me confidence, believing in who I am, believing in what I can do. And obviously, Benni trusted me to bring me here. So, yeah, I'm just ready to get going. Of course, it's everything,” he added.

“You want that love from fans, especially coming from home, which I can call Kenya, it's home. So, yeah, that love is everything for a footballer. And now when I go out on the pitch, I can feel that love. When the crowd starts roaring, it gets after you. So it's a really good thing.”