Why Michael Olunga wants Kenyans to trust Benni McCarthy's process

Why Michael Olunga wants Kenyans to trust Benni McCarthy's process

Mark Kinyanjui 12:28 - 18.03.2025

Michael Olunga has explained why he believes Kenyans should give Benni McCarthy time.

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has backed new head coach Benni McCarthy, urging Kenyans to be patient and trust the team’s evolution under the South African tactician. 

Olunga, who is set to lead the side in their first match under McCarthy against Johnathan McKinstry’s Gambia on Wednesday, believes the squad is moving in the right direction.

The Qatar-based striker has endured a year-long goal drought for the national team, but he remains confident that both he and the squad will make a strong impression as they resume their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. 

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Kenya currently sits fourth in the group with five points from four matches, making the upcoming fixtures against Gambia (March 20) and Gabon (March 23) crucial in their push for qualification.

Before the team’s departure to Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Olunga praised the newly elected Football Kenya Federation (FKF) leadership for fostering a positive environment that has motivated the squad.

“We want to thank the new Federation led by Mr Hussein (Mohammed)  and his Vice President McDonald Mariga for creating a peaceful and professional setup for the players. 

"The new coach has also shown faith in many players by selecting a well-balanced squad, and everyone is excited for these two matches,” Olunga remarked.

Kenya’s first challenge under McCarthy will be against a Gambia side coached by McKinstry, the man who led Gor Mahia to two league titles in 2023 and 2024 before moving on. 

The Scorpions boast an impressive squad, including Brighton & Hove Albion winger Yankuba Minteh, making them formidable opponents.

“They are an emerging force in African football with a talented squad, but it is up to us to show our quality,” Olunga stated.

Following their away clash with Gambia, Kenya will face Gabon at Nyayo Stadium—marking the first time the national team will play a competitive match on home soil since September 2023. Olunga extended his appreciation to the Kenyan government for ensuring the stadium is ready.

“I want to thank the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of Sports for securing Nyayo Stadium for our next home match. It’s great to finally play in front of our fans again,” he said.

As Harambee Stars embrace a new era under McCarthy, Olunga emphasised the importance of patience, urging fans to give the coach time to implement his philosophy.

“It’s a fresh start with a great coach, and the dynamics are different. We need to be patient as we adapt to the new playing style he wants to introduce. Everyone in the squad is eager to learn and execute his ideas,” the forward concluded.

With two crucial qualifiers ahead, Olunga’s leadership and faith in McCarthy’s process will be vital as Kenya aims to revive their AFCON qualification hopes.

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