McCarthy raises alarm over work permit status for himself and technical team in Kenya
By Joel Masibo, September 23, 2026Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has expressed concern over the work permit status of himself and members of his technical team, saying they currently lack the necessary legal documentation to work in Kenya.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, the South African tactician said the situation has become a personal concern, as he does not want to find himself facing questions from authorities over his presence in the country without the required permits.
McCarthy, who was unveiled as the new head coach of Kenya’s national men’s football team, the Harambee Stars, on March 3, 2025, said he was uncomfortable with the possibility of being considered to be in Kenya illegally while carrying out his duties as head coach of the national team.
“I don’t want to be questioned by authorities on why I am in another country illegally,” McCarthy said.
The former Manchester United coach said he currently has no legal basis to remain in the country, arguing that the matter should be treated with greater urgency by those responsible for his employment.
“I have no reason to be here because I am not legal to be here. Because it is a big problem to me, but it seems it is not a problem for the people we work for,” he said.
McCarthy also pointed to the responsibility of the authorities and organisations involved in hiring foreign personnel, saying the employer should ensure that all necessary documentation is secured before an individual begins work.
“The people that deploy you must make sure you have them,” he said.
The revelation comes at a sensitive time for Harambee Stars, with the team preparing for its upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying assignment.
McCarthy’s comments are likely to put renewed focus on the administrative arrangements surrounding the foreign coach and his technical staff, particularly their ability to carry out their duties in Kenya in accordance with immigration and employment requirements.
The coach’s concerns also raise questions about whether the necessary processes were completed when he and his technical team were brought in to take charge of the national side. Benni McCarthy will lead Harambee Stars for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 qualifiers against Eritrea and Guinea, with a blend of locally based players and Kenyan internationals plying their trade abroad called for the national duties.