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Benni McCarthy defends his diaspora recruitment strategy for Harambee Stars
24th March, 2026 03:19 PM
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has defended the Football Kenya Federation’s plan to bring in players born outside the country as preparations continue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to the South African tactician, the initiative to involve diaspora players is not about convincing unwilling footballers but rather engaging those who already have the desire to represent Kenya at the international level.
Recently, McCarthy was part of a delegation from the Football Kenya Federation that travelled to Europe under the leadership of vice president McDonald Mariga. The purpose of the visit was to meet several foreign-based footballers eligible to play for Kenya and discuss the possibility of strengthening the national team ahead of AFCON 2027.
Some of these players have already been named in the provisional squad set to participate in the upcoming FIFA Series, including Zech Obiero and Zak Vyner. However, Vyner is expected to miss the tournament while finalising documentation requirements.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Nyayo Stadium, McCarthy emphasised that the recruitment process is built on willingness rather than persuasion.
“We have a lot to look forward to, a lot of players that we want to see that are very eager, and I think for me that is important,” he said.
McCarthy dismisses claims of begging players
The coach strongly rejected suggestions that Kenya is pleading with diaspora players to join the national team. He explained that eligibility is based on heritage, particularly through parents who are Kenyan.
“Not begging players to come and play like it is a free world, they have got a Kenyan mother or father, so they are eligible to play for Kenya because they have a parent that was born in this country, so they are very much Kenyan like every single one of you, whether they are born in another country.
“But with your father or mother Kenyan, how does that not make you Kenyan? So the fact that they want to come to play for Kenya, that is important, instead of us forcing ourselves on players, begging them, I would never beg anyone.”
McCarthy also expressed confidence that the players who choose to represent Kenya will be fully committed to the national cause as the country builds towards hosting AFCON 2027.
He highlighted enthusiasm among the players as a key factor in achieving strong performances on the pitch.
“The fact that they are eager and optimistic is what you want,” he added. “That is how you will get the best of players because they want to play for Kenya. I am looking to build towards 2027, so it is exciting times.”
The Harambee Stars technical bench is expected to assess several of the new call-ups during the upcoming FIFA Series matches scheduled to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, providing an opportunity to evaluate talent as long-term preparations for AFCON 2027 continue.
