Former Gor Mahia coach Frank Nuttall on why he wants Harambee Stars job amid Benni McCarthy rumors

Former Gor Mahia coach Frank Nuttall. IMAGE/ GoalKenya

Former Gor Mahia coach Frank Nuttall on why he wants Harambee Stars job amid Benni McCarthy rumors

Festus Chuma 15:30 - 15.01.2025

The Scot has expressed interest in the Harambee Stars job, citing past success in Kenya and optimism for the future.

Scottish tactician Frank Nuttall has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the vacant Harambee Stars head coach position. 

The national team’s top job became available following Engin Firat’s resignation in December 2024, after a lackluster tenure that failed to meet expectations. 

While rumors abound that South African coach Benni McCarthy is the frontrunner for the role, Nuttall has made a compelling case for his candidacy, citing his successful history in Kenyan football.

Nuttall, 56, who famously led Gor Mahia to back-to-back Kenyan Premier League titles in 2014 and 2015, believes his deep understanding of the country’s football landscape and his impressive track record make him an ideal candidate for the role. 

Speaking to a local publication, he expressed his enthusiasm and determination to lead the Harambee Stars.

“I am interested in the Harambee Stars head coach job, and I have informed the FKF of my desire and motivation to lead the team,” Nuttall told MozzartSport.

The Scottish tactician, who previously achieved an unbeaten league season with Gor Mahia in 2015, pointed to his prior success in Kenya as a key reason for his confidence in taking up the job. 

“I had unmatched success in Kenya and continue to monitor and assess the national team’s performance and players,” he added.

Despite growing speculation that Benni McCarthy, the former Manchester United assistant coach and South African football legend, is the leading contender for the position, Nuttall remains optimistic about his chances. 

He emphasized his experience with both national and club teams across Africa and beyond, highlighting his ability to deliver results in diverse environments.

Nuttall’s coaching credentials extend far beyond Kenya. 

After his stellar tenure at Gor Mahia, he worked as an assistant coach at Egyptian giants Zamalek SC and later led Ghana’s Accra Hearts of Oak to significant milestones, including an FA Cup final and a win in the Independence Cup final. 

His international experience also includes stints in Sudan, Botswana, Ethiopia, and Rwanda, where he consistently demonstrated his tactical acumen and leadership skills.

With Kenya’s football scene undergoing a transformation under the leadership of newly elected FKF President Hussein Mohammed and Vice President Mariga, Nuttall sees an opportunity to contribute to a brighter future for the national team. 

“Mariga is someone who has international exposure and has played football globally. With his mindset, connections, and desire to improve things, I believe he will do a good job at the federation,” he remarked.

The Harambee Stars’ head coach position is one of the most scrutinized roles in Kenyan sports, especially with the team’s struggles to perform consistently on the international stage. 

While fans and pundits are abuzz with speculation about McCarthy’s potential appointment, Nuttall’s proven ability to turn around teams and his familiarity with Kenyan football could make him a strong contender.

Nuttall’s tenure at Gor Mahia remains a benchmark of success in the Kenyan Premier League, particularly the 2015 season when he guided the team to an unbeaten record, a feat last achieved in 1976.

 His ability to build winning teams, coupled with his strategic insights and passion for the game, underscores his belief that he can lead Harambee Stars to new heights.

“I believe I can bring success to the Harambee Stars. My experience in Kenya and other African countries has prepared me for this challenge,” he concluded in a separate interview.