The imminent appointment of Benni McCarthy as the new Harambee Stars head coach could mark a significant turning point for Kenya’s emerging football talents, especially if his views on youth development in South Africa are anything to go by.McCarthy, a former Manchester United forwards coach, is set to take over from Engin Firat in the coming days, marking his first role as a national team coach.His previous coaching stints at AmaZulu FC and Cape Town City FC in South Africa provided him with valuable experience in nurturing local talents.##NAJAVA_MECA_8605373##His arrival in Kenya comes at a critical time, as the nation prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.The tournament presents a golden opportunity for Kenya to showcase its footballing prowess on a continental stage.The UEFA Champions League winner has shared his thoughts on South African football, particularly the challenges of nurturing young talents.The 47-year-old criticized the cautious approach of coaches, arguing that many are more concerned with job security than developing future stars.”Coaches are afraid to give young players a chance because they want to keep their jobs. This results in a lack of player development to replace the older generation when they retire,” McCarthy explained to Soccer Laduma.AFC Leopards’ 2024: A mixed bag of hope and challengesHe noted that the issue is not solely with the coaches but also with club owners, who prioritize immediate results over youth development. “The club owners demand results at all costs and often neglect the importance of nurturing youth talent,” he said.McCarthy emphasized the crucial role of reserve teams, stressing that youth coaches must collaborate closely with senior team coaches to ensure a smooth transition for young players into top-level football. “It starts with the club’s vision,” he added.These remarks are timely for Kenya, where the national team is undergoing a transitional phase. Following the country’s failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, there are growing calls for a fresh approach, with many advocating for the inclusion of younger players in the Harambee Stars setup.Two FKF Premier League coaches lament of financial struggle affecting playersMcCarthy’s philosophy aligns with the current wave of promising talent in Kenya, particularly within the U20 team, which has qualified for the 2025 U20 AFCON in Ivory Coast.Players like captain Amos Wanjala, Aldrine Kibet, Kevin Wangaya, William Gitamu, Baron Ochieng, and Andreas Odhiambo are seen as future prospects for the senior team.Their inclusion could provide the boost Kenya needs as it seeks to rebuild and compete at the continental level.AFC Leopards’ 2024: A mixed bag of hope and challengesBurundi, Uganda Cranes withdrawal forces format change for Mapinduzi Cup
