Former Harambee Stars manager Jacob "Ghost" Mulee has called on Kenyan supporters to look beyond match outcomes when evaluating current head coach Benni McCarthy's performance. Mulee, who led Kenya twice before, understands the pressure on McCarthy but has no desire to return to the dugout. He remains open to an advisory position, however. Mulee's comments come amid mounting criticism of McCarthy's tenure following recent qualifying setbacks.
McCarthy's tenure has come under scrutiny after Kenya's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign began with a 1-1 draw against Eritrea and a 1-0 loss to Guinea in Conakry. The South African was appointed on March 3, 2025, succeeding Engin Firat, on a contract that runs through the 2027 AFCON, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania. At the time of his hiring, McCarthy joined from Manchester United, where he was part of Erik ten Hag's coaching staff.
Mulee argued that the discussion should extend beyond results, pointing to frequent disruptions such as player strikes and training boycotts that hinder a coach's preparation. He emphasized that such external factors make it difficult for any tactician to meet supporters' expectations, expressing empathy for McCarthy's challenging position. Kenya's most recent defeat on October 1 saw Guinea's Serhou Guirassy score the only goal after a loose ball was not cleared.
McCarthy's record after the Guinea loss stands at eight wins, five draws, and seven defeats in his first 20 matches, fueling debate over his future. Mulee's comments are a show of support for the coach, who has faced criticism from fans and pundits alike. The former Harambee Stars coach understands the pressure on McCarthy but believes that fans should consider the broader challenges facing the team.
Mulee, who led Kenya twice before, has no desire to return to the dugout but is open to an advisory position. He believes that his experience could be valuable in helping the team navigate the challenges that come with being a national team coach. McCarthy's tenure has been marked by several challenges, including player injuries and suspensions.
Kenya is set to play a friendly against Rwanda before resuming competitive fixtures, giving McCarthy another chance to address performance concerns ahead of the 2027 AFCON on home soil. The Harambee Stars will look to bounce back from their recent setbacks and build momentum ahead of the tournament. Mulee's comments are expected to ease some of the pressure on McCarthy.
The 2027 AFCON will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, and McCarthy will be looking to lead the Harambee Stars to a strong finish in the tournament. With the competition just around the corner, McCarthy will need to address the team's performance concerns and build a strong squad to compete against the best teams in Africa.
Key points
- Former Harambee Stars coach Jacob "Ghost" Mulee urges Kenyan fans to consider challenges facing Benni McCarthy's tenure as national team coach.
- McCarthy's record after 20 matches stands at eight wins, five draws, and seven defeats.
- Kenya will co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Uganda and Tanzania.
