Benni McCarthy on Why Kenyan Footballers Have Superior Mentality to South Africans

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy is wowed by the mentality of Kenyan players. Photo/FKF Media.

Benni McCarthy on Why Kenyan Footballers Have Superior Mentality to South Africans

Joel Omotto 17:19 - 09.04.2025

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has highlighted one aspect about Kenyan players that he admires most compared to those from his country South Africa.

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has weighed in on the mentality of Kenyan players that he has found to be even better than their counterparts in South Africa.

The South African legend, who became Kenya national team coach in March, has been wowed by his players in just a short time working with them, explaining how their ability to take on challenges sets them apart from South African footballers.

McCarthy feels South Africa has many talented players but they shy away from testing themselves against the best in the world, opting to play at home all their careers, when they have the quality to feature for some of the best teams and clubs on the globe, while Kenyan stars are always looking for an opportunity to join paid ranks abroad.

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South African footballers happy in comfort zones

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy. Photo. FKF Media

“In South Africa, players are exceptional talents, they have got what it takes but they are happy to stay in South Africa,” McCarthy told NTV.

“They don’t want to move because they are in their comfort zone and for me, that is underselling yourself because in order to be the best, you have to play against the best.

“You have to test yourself against the best teams in the world, the best players in the world. In South Africa, you are not going to get that,” he added.

What does McCarthy love about Kenyan players?

Harambee Stars. Benni McCarthy. Ivory Coast vs Gambia
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy embraces midfielder William Lenkupae after he scored a late equalizer against Gambia. Photo/FKF Media.

The former Ajax Amsterdam, Celta Vigo, FC Porto and Blackburn Rovers striker then juxtaposed that with what he has seen in Kenya, explaining the difference in mentality between players from the two countries.

“And what I have experienced here in Kenya, there are so many players going to Europe so they are never afraid to step out of their comfort zone because the belief is that; ‘yes, I can achieve that, I can play in Europe, I can make it in Europe,” said the former Manchester United first team coach.

“And, I love that and because you see so much of that here in Kenya when you talk to the players in the national team, they have so much aspiration.”

Kenyan players are scattered in various leagues abroad with Europe and the Middle East a favourite destination and the Harambee Stars tactician feels that will bring success to the national team as the experience gathered overseas will be translated to international matches.