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Benedict Saul “Benni” McCarthy, born on November 12, 1977, in Cape Town, South Africa, is a renowned football figure celebrated for his prolific playing career and subsequent coaching endeavors. 
Playing Career:
McCarthy’s football journey began with South Africa’s Seven Stars, where his striking prowess soon led him to Europe. He played for prominent clubs including Ajax Amsterdam, Celta Vigo, FC Porto, Blackburn Rovers, and West Ham United. Notably, during his tenure at FC Porto under coach José Mourinho, McCarthy was instrumental in the team’s 2003–04 UEFA Champions League triumph. On the international stage, he earned 80 caps for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, and remains their all-time leading scorer with 31 goals.
Coaching Career:
Transitioning to coaching, McCarthy took on roles such as assistant manager at Sint-Truiden and head coach positions at Cape Town City and AmaZulu in South Africa. His coaching acumen led AmaZulu to a historic second-place finish in the South African Premier Division. In 2022, McCarthy joined Manchester United’s coaching staff, focusing on attacking play and forward development. 
Current Role:
In March 2025, McCarthy embarked on a new chapter as the head coach of Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first South African to lead a non-COSAFA national team to the Africa Cup of Nations. Kenya is set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tanzania and Uganda, and McCarthy’s leadership is anticipated to elevate the team’s performance on this prominent stage.
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