Kenyan star on why Benni McCarthy is the best they’ve ever had

Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy has received high praise from one of his players in Kenya over his management style.

McCarthy is basking in the glory of his team’s 1-0 win over Burundi in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday and his appointment in the East African country has been termed as the best-ever made by Kenya.

South Africa’s all-time top scorer was appointed in March 2025 and has brought back belief, changed the players’ mindsets while instilling professionalism and discipline which has led to a change in fortunes for Kenya.

Kenyan goalkeeper Faruk Shikalo says McCarthy’s appointment was the best thing to ever happen to the players as he puts them first unlike other coaches they have had before.

Kenyan goalkeeper lauds Benni’s impact

“There is nothing as good as having a coach who has played and understands football. Do you know with coach McCarthy, you can get cash rewards, he receives nothing and he is very comfortable?” Shikalo said on the TikiTaka Show.

“I sometimes wonder because if he gives you a game and you fail to fight for him, then you are mad. The way he treats people [is amazing].

“You could receive even Ksh5 million as a team and he will say; ‘give it to the players, not officials.’ Where have you seen that? Then he has a character that makes it difficult to fall out with him unless you have a problem.”

The highly-experienced shot stopper detailed McCarthy’s man-management skills that have taken the players by surprise to the extent they now want to fight for him every time they are given an opportunity.  

What makes McCarthy different?

“He is like a brother and father. He is so good that he can just look at you and call you aside to know where the problem is,” added Shikalo.

“For him, whether you are senior or junior, everything has to be straight forward. For him it is all about the team and not individual and he believes that everybody can play.

“In all these years I have played, he is the best we have had because he is understanding. He allows your family to come to camp, watch you in training as long as you are comfortable and your performance on the pitch is great.”

McCarthy’s reign has seen him manage 12 games, winning six, with four drawn and two defeats.