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Former Harambee Stars defender has explained how Benni McCarthy can become a success as head coach of Harambee Stars.
Former Harambee Stars defender Sammy Omollo ‘Pamzo’ has shared his insights on what Benni McCarthy must do to elevate Kenya’s chances of reaching their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
McCarthy, who previously served on Erik ten Hag’s coaching team at Manchester United, now faces the daunting task of reviving Kenya’s World Cup qualification hopes.
McCarthy, South Africa’s all-time leading goal scorer with 31 goals in 79 appearances, has a wealth of experience from his playing days at clubs like Ajax, Celta Vigo, Porto, Blackburn Rovers, and West Ham United.
As a manager, he previously handled South African clubs Cape Town City and AmaZulu before moving to Manchester United as a first-team coach. His track record makes him a respected figure both in Africa and Europe.
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14:30 - 04.03.2025
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Pamzo believes that this reputation will be crucial in commanding respect from the players and instilling a winning mentality within the squad.
“It is a very good signing for our football, and I believe with his experience, having gotten a taste of both African and European flair, he is coming with a profile that will uplift our football. So everyone will respect him,” Pamzo said.
However, he cautioned against expecting instant results, urging patience from fans and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
“He also excelled both as a player and coach. His credentials are good, so I believe FKF have gotten a good coach in Benni McCarthy. Kenyans should give him time because we should not be in a hurry to get results.”
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Pamzo stressed the importance of strengthening the country’s football foundations through grassroots development, arguing that Kenya’s long-term success hinges on unearthing and nurturing young talent.
“Let us make a foundation and make sure we improve grassroots football because if we want our national team to perform better, that has to be taken care of because talents are there.”
He also called for better financial backing for local clubs, highlighting the dire need for sponsorship deals and improved infrastructure.
“We need to have sponsorships. Our teams are poor, which affects our performances. We need better facilities because those are not quality pitches, and it affects the quality of the game.”
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05:48 - 04.03.2025
Benni McCarthy playfully opens up about settling into Harambee Stars role
South African Benni McCarthy playfully shares concerns as he takes charge of Harambee Stars
For McCarthy to succeed in his new role, Pamzo emphasised the need for collaboration with local coaches who understand the intricacies of Kenyan football. He pointed out that even in South Africa, foreign coaches work alongside local tacticians to bridge cultural and language barriers.
“He will need one or two local coaches because it happens everywhere, even in South Africa. He is coming to a country where he needs to learn things such as the language.”
Beyond the technical aspects, Pamzo highlighted the psychological side of the game, noting that McCarthy must change the mentality of the players.
“He needs to change the mindset of our players because we have not been doing well. The motivating factor is important, as well as how he prepares the team and how he articulates himself. If he can get immediate results, it will boost the confidence of the players.”
Pamzo also praised McCarthy’s willingness to integrate local coaches into his plans, a stark contrast to his predecessor Engin Firat, who relied heavily on foreign-based players.
“I love that he will be working closely with the local coaches, me included. There are so many things not going right with our football, so as coaches, we have to help him.”
According to Pamzo, McCarthy must strike a balance between professional and local players to ensure inclusivity and motivation among homegrown talents.
“The immediate former coach (Engin Firat) was very reliant on professional footballers and not using the local ones as well. McCarthy will have to find a balance so we can motivate those players.”
McCarthy’s tenure will kick off with two crucial World Cup qualifiers: an away fixture against Gambia on March 17 and a home encounter against Gabon a week later.
Kenya, currently ranked 108th in the FIFA rankings, sit fourth in their qualification group, four points behind second-placed Gabon.
For the Harambee Stars, the road to the World Cup remains challenging. However, with McCarthy at the helm, coupled with the right strategies and adequate support from FKF and local stakeholders, Kenya may have a fighting chance at making history.
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