Benni McCarthy Scours Europe for Talent as Kenya Eyes AFCON 2027 Boost
Kenya national team coach Benni McCarthy has intensified efforts to scout players based in Europe, with Germany emerging as a key hunting ground as he looks to bolster the Harambee Stars squad.
The former South Africa international, who took charge in March 2025, says tapping into Kenya’s overseas-based talent could significantly raise the team’s quality ahead of major continental assignments.
McCarthy revealed he has been closely monitoring players in leagues across Scottland, England and Germany, identifying several prospects who could add depth and competitiveness to the squad.
Also Read: ‘Criticism Is Normal’: Benni McCarthy Defends His Record with Harambee Stars
Focus shifts to AFCON 2027 after World Cup setback
With Kenya out of contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, attention has shifted firmly to preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
McCarthy is aiming to build a strong, balanced squad capable of competing on home soil, using both local and foreign-based players to create a competitive edge.
He is particularly encouraged by the presence of Kenyan players in top European development systems, including those attached to Bundesliga clubs and reserve sides.
CHAN progress provides foundation for growth
The coach guided Kenya to the quarter-finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) last year, a run he believes laid an important foundation for future success.
However, he has hinted at concerns over the domestic league’s competitiveness, suggesting that integrating higher-level players from abroad could help elevate overall team standards.
According to McCarthy, adding a handful of quality players from Europe could significantly improve the squad’s performance and chances of success in upcoming tournaments.
FIFA Series offers crucial international exposure
McCarthy has also underscored the importance of the upcoming FIFA Series, describing it as a valuable platform for Kenya to test themselves against teams from different regions.
The tournament, which features nations from multiple continental confederations, will see teams compete in a structured format where winners and losers of opening matches face off accordingly.
For Kenya, the competition presents a rare opportunity to measure progress against unfamiliar opposition, including European and Caribbean sides.
Estonia clash seen as key benchmark
Looking ahead to a fixture against Estonia, McCarthy believes such matches are essential in gauging the team’s readiness.
He noted that Estonia’s recent encounters against strong European opponents make them an ideal test for Kenya’s evolving squad.
The coach emphasised that facing higher-ranked teams will help identify gaps, sharpen tactics and accelerate the team’s development as they build toward AFCON 2027.
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