AFCON 2027: McCarthy explains Harambee Stars training boycott
By Joel Masibo, September 23, 2026Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has explained the reason behind his men boycotting training sessions after reporting to their residential camp on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 in readiness for a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Harambee Stars are preparing for a Group D clash against Eritrea on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, McCarthy admitted that the players’ welfare is very important and it comes first. This is after reports coming from the Harambee Stars camp suggest they have downed their tools due to unpaid allowances of more than five matches, prompting McCarthy to ask relevant authorities to intervene and salvage the situation ahead of the Saturday’s assignment.
“For me, the players come first before anyone else. Players’ welfare is more important. Yes, the federation is important, the coach and the technical team is important, but the people that walk on that pitch when the whistle blows are the most important. When you want to give everything for your country, but you are promised you are going to get your allowance and it goes three, four and five different camps and you have not received your allowance, it becomes difficult. These players do not earn what Manchester United payers ern, so when they receive their allowance, it contributes to something,” McCarthy said.
Reasons for boycott
The players, who reported to camp, are said to have held a meeting among themselves where they agreed to suspend training until their welfare and logistical concerns are addressed.
The players want to meet either President William Ruto or officials from the Ministry of Sports to discuss a number of issues they say have affected the national team during recent assignments.
One of the major concerns raised is accommodation. The players reportedly claim they have repeatedly been housed in substandard hotels during both home and away matches, and want the situation addressed before they resume preparations for the Eritrea fixture.
They have also questioned the arrangements made for their air travel, with the players reportedly unhappy about being booked on cheaper flights that involve lengthy layovers despite the availability of more convenient options.
The players are understood to be seeking better travel arrangements that would allow them to arrive at their destinations in better conditions and with adequate time to recover before matches.
Another key demand is the payment of all outstanding allowances. The players want the arrears settled before returning to training as they prepare for the crucial AFCON qualifier.