Harambee Stars Crisis: Why FIFA Might Intervene in Kenya’s AFCON Campaign

Financial turmoil has once again struck Kenya’s national football team, as Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy revealed that he and his entire technical bench have not been paid. This revelation comes at a critical moment, just days before Kenya faces South Africa in a crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.

The pay dispute highlights ongoing managerial friction within Kenyan football. While the squad’s players finally received their outstanding allowances following a tense standoff that disrupted initial training camps, the coaching staff remains entirely uncompensated.

McCarthy expressed his frustrations to Sporty TV, warning that global football governing bodies like FIFA and CAF might be forced to intervene if local authorities continue to neglect their financial obligations.

This is not the first time monetary issues have threatened Kenya’s 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign. Ahead of their opening match against Eritrea in September, players staged a sit-in and refused to train over delayed payments. McCarthy personally intervened to convince the squad to return to the pitch, leaving the team with just a single training session before the match.

The disruption severely impacted the team’s on-field performance. Harambee Stars have managed to secure only one point from their opening two Group D fixtures, drawing 1-1 against Eritrea in Nairobi before suffering a 1-0 defeat away to Guinea.

Beyond the immediate financial strain, administrative hurdles are actively fueling uncertainty around McCarthy’s long-term future with the national team. The South African tactician disclosed that he and several foreign members of his technical staff have not been issued Kenyan work permits. Because they lack the legal documentation to reside in the country between assignments, the coaches are forced to leave Kenya immediately after every international camp ends.

Compounded by these logistical headaches, the former Manchester United forwards coach admitted he misses the daily routine of club football. While McCarthy remains committed to honoring his current duties and elevating Kenyan football, these systemic frustrations have fueled his desire to return to club management once his stint with the Harambee Stars concludes.

Jema-writes feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com