Former Kenyan international Musa Otieno says the decision to hire Benni Macarthy as Harambee Stars coach is a big plus for Kenyan football.Otieno, who spent more than a decade in South Africa as a player, says the former Bafana Bafana striker understands the local culture and mixed with his international experience, is likely to succeed.“When you look at his history, he has the experience of having worked at the highest international level. He understands the local environment as well and this should give him an advantage when working with Harambee Stars,” he said.Benni McCarthy’s tactical revolution: Can he break Kenya’s World Cup curse?Otieno, the longest-serving captain of the national team, also pointed out that McCarthy’s support staff is equally experienced.“The fact that he has worked at the highest level means he has learned quite a bit about football and we as a country are lucky to have him here. He is aware of new trends in football and we shall get better with his experience,” Otieno went on.He, however, cautioned that good preparations will be key in ensuring that the new coach succeeds. “Even with such a pedigree of coaches we still need to ensure that the team is well prepared to get positive results.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8753187##Macarthy has signed a two-year contract, replacing Francis Kimanzi who has been holding the position in an acting capacity since December last year following the departure of Engin Firat.His first task is to guide Harambee Stars during the 2026 World Cup qualifier matches against Gambia and Gabon.Despite lying in fourth position in the group, Macarthy has expressed confidence that he can guide Harambee Stars to the 2026 World Cup.“Participating in the World Cup is one of the most special feelings in the world and I want to give that to Kenya,” he said.Esse Akida: I am not done yet
