We’re ready to exorcise the ghosts haunting Harambee Stars, says McCarthy

Harambee Stars’ head coach Benni McCarthy has told Kenyan football fans to forget the ghosts of unfulfilled potential, reminding them this is a new dawn.

The South African gaffer pledged to restore faith and ignite a fire that burns bright with the ambition of the nation. Promising to turn a crucial chapter in Kenya’s unfolding football saga, McCarthy said he has his sights firmly trained on clinching the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) trophy in August.

He described the showpiece as a story waiting to be written in the vibrant colours of Kenyan pride. He tipped his charges to crack a spot in the finals of the eagerly-awaited tournament, a bold declaration that echoes through the heart of listless Kenyan football fans.

“Harambee Stars have often grappled with unfulfilled potential, and my leadership heralds a new chapter, one rooted in ambition and a desire to elevate Kenyan football to unprecedented heights,” McCarthy said.

“We want to demonstrate our abilities and present a positive image of ourselves at the 2024 CHAN tournament in Kenya. Instead of failing, we want to succeed. We want to advance to the semifinals and possibly the championship game. I think it is possible with enough effort,” McCarthy remarked.

The 47-year-old South African, a former assistant coach of Manchester United, is adamant that Harambee Stars will play the appealing style of football that the supporters have been clamouring for. McCarthy recognises the emotional investment of the fans and the weight of their expectations.

“I want to make Kenya the greatest team in East Africa’s history. Kenya will succeed if the national team is fixed. It is the passion on people’s faces that, in my opinion, demonstrates how much they love their nation. The national team has not yet met the expectations of the supporters,” McCarthy underlined.

“My vision isn’t just about winning; it’s about igniting a flame, rekindling the love affair between Kenyans and their team,” he added.

The upcoming friendlies against Chad, scheduled for June 7 and June 10 in Morocco, will serve as a critical litmus test for the Harambee Stars.

The gaffer said these matches present a pivotal opportunity for him to forge unity and test the mettle of his squad as they gear up for CHAN.

“The friendlies will not only provide a platform for individual players to shine but will also facilitate the development of team chemistry, a crucial ingredient for success in high-stakes matches,” he said.