Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has urged Kenyans to lower their AFCON 2027 expectations. The former Manchester United coach says Kenya still lacks the depth needed to win the continental title.
McCarthy pointed to Kenya’s limited football infrastructure and player development systems. He also highlighted the gap between Kenya and Africa’s established football powers.
Kenya Faces a Major Challenge
McCarthy named Morocco, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal among Africa’s leading football nations.
He said those countries have invested heavily in football development. Their national teams also benefit from players competing at top European clubs.
Kenya, meanwhile, continues to develop its football structures and talent pool. McCarthy believes Kenya cannot bridge that gap overnight.
McCarthy Wants Realistic Targets
The coach has urged fans to approach AFCON 2027 with realistic expectations. Kenya will co-host the tournament with Uganda and Tanzania.
McCarthy does not want the team to focus solely on winning the title. Instead, he wants Harambee Stars to build a stronger foundation for the future.
His immediate target involves progressing beyond the group stage. He has also set his sights on reaching the Round of 16.
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A Long-Term Vision
McCarthy also plans to expand Kenya’s international talent pool. He wants to attract players with Kenyan roots from different parts of the world.
The coach sees AFCON 2027 as a starting point for bigger ambitions. He believes Kenya needs a long-term development plan to compete consistently.
McCarthy has therefore placed greater emphasis on building sustainable football structures. His approach could shape Kenya’s football strategy well beyond the 2027 tournament.
