With just three days to go, the buzz is unmistakable.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has reshuffled his final CHAN 2025 squad, injecting fresh blood into Kenya’s debut campaign with three late replacements.
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa
Defenders: Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders: Chrispin Erambo, Brian Michira, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Forwards: Edward Omondi, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch.
In a decisive move, McCarthy named Brian Michira (Shabana FC), Chrispin Erambo (Tusker), and Edward Omondi (Sofapaka) as replacements for Mohammed Bajaber, Swaleh Pamba, and Brian Musa, who will now miss the tournament due to fitness concerns.
“At this level, you need players who are 100 per cent ready—physically, mentally, tactically. We had to make these changes for the good of the team,” McCarthy said.
“Michira has shown great vision and control in midfield. Erambo brings incredible balance and mobility, and Omondi gives us a sharp edge up front. They’ve earned their spots.”
Kenya finds itself in what many have dubbed the “Group of Fire”, alongside Morocco, Angola, Zambia, and DR Congo—a CHAN powerhouse. “We know the challenge. This is not going to be a walk in the park. These are top-level teams, but we’re not here to make up the numbers,” McCarthy said. “This is a new generation of Harambee Stars—hungry, homegrown, and ready.”
The South African tactician emphasised the importance of composure and crowd support as Kenya prepares for its first-ever CHAN appearance.
“Playing at home is a privilege. That energy, that roar from Kasarani—it can lift us when our legs are tired and push us when things get tough,” he added.
McCarthy has been forced to reconfigure his 25-man squad after top forwards Moses Shumah and Emmanuel Osoro became ineligible due to transfers abroad.
Mohamed Bajaber also exited the squad after securing a move outside the country, effectively ruling himself out of the home-based continental showpiece. CHAN regulations only allow players actively featuring in domestic leagues. “These are players I had counted on heavily,” McCarthy admitted.
“Shumah and Osoro were electric last season, finishing first and second in the goal-scoring charts. Losing them days before kickoff is a blow, no doubt.”
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has firmly dismissed reports of internal strife within the national team’s camp, insisting he remains in complete control as Kenya prepares for the upcoming CHAN tournament.
Speaking to journalists at Nyayo National Stadium during the team’s first training session after their controversial withdrawal from the Cecafa Four Nations tournament in Tanzania, the 48-year-old South African tactician addressed swirling rumors that have dominated football circles in recent weeks.
The speculation began when several football pundits took to social media claiming that McCarthy had been forced to eject players who had arrived at the training camp without his invitation or approval.
These allegations painted a picture of discord and questioned the coach’s authority over team selection.
However, McCarthy was quick to challenge his critics, demanding concrete evidence to support their claims.
“Kindly give me names and back it up with facts so that I know who came to my squad without my knowledge,” he stated emphatically.
“Every player has been here for two weeks except Felix Oluoch, who impressed when we played a combined team and was a standout player.”
The coach went on to explain that Oluoch’s late inclusion was purely merit-based, with the technical team convinced by his performance in a friendly match.
“As a technical team, what Oluoch showed in the friendly game was enough to convince us that he can join the team. I’m very professional, and if there is anybody claiming so, let him back it up with evidence. I’m fully in charge of this squad,” McCarthy added with conviction.
The timing of these allegations has raised eyebrows, particularly following Kenya’s abrupt departure from the pre-CHAN tournament in Arusha.
McCarthy clarified that the decision to withdraw was purely based on player welfare and safety concerns.
“The conditions were not favourable to us, we could have got more injuries and for safety reasons, the wellbeing of the players, we decided not to play and so came back,” he explained.
The coach revealed that teams were not permitted to train on the main pitch, and the available training facilities were substandard.
Rather than risk player injuries on poor surfaces, the technical team made the difficult decision to prioritize long-term preparation over short-term competition.
Despite the controversy, McCarthy remains focused on the task ahead. With 28 players currently in camp, he expressed satisfaction with the team’s fitness levels and preparation.
“We are working on fitness and mass training sessions where my players can play for 90 and even extra time. I’m pleased with everything on fitness, and we are hitting over 500km in distance covered so far,” he noted.
The coach also confirmed that he has been monitoring international player Masoud Juma, a former Kariobangi Sharks player who has returned to Kenya and signed with a local club.
“I have known him since we were at an international camp, and I signed him to play in the South African league. I have spoken to him, I know his quality, he has a lot of experience,” McCarthy revealed, though he remained coy about which Kenyan club Juma had joined.
With Kenya Police forward Mohamed Bajabeer expected to rejoin the squad after recovering from injury, McCarthy is set to announce his final 23-man squad by the end of the week.
The team faces a challenging group stage draw, having been placed alongside two-time champions Morocco, DR Congo, Zambia, and Angola in what promises to be a highly competitive CHAN tournament beginning August 2.
Players in the camp, including Shabana teenager Austin Odongo and Gor Mahia duo Alphonce Omija and Austin Odhiambo, have echoed their coach’s sentiments, praising the quality of training sessions and expressing confidence ahead of the continental showpiece.
As McCarthy continues to deflect criticism and maintain his authority, the focus now shifts to finalizing preparations for what could be Kenya’s best opportunity to make a significant impact at the CHAN tournament on home soil.
For the first time ever, Kenya will compete in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), and the Harambee Stars are ready to shine.
Head coach Benni McCarthy has officially named his final 25-man squad for the 2024 CHAN tournament, set to kick off on August 2 across four East African nations: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar.
The South African tactician has built a squad filled with domestic-based stars, blending experience with promising young talent. With Kenya playing host, expectations are sky-high.
The Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 squad is a daring mix of grit, youth, and ambition. With Benni McCarthy at the helm, Kenya is not just hosting the continent—they’re ready to compete. Whether they go all the way or not, one thing is clear: the future of local football starts now. [Photo: Courtesy]
Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 Squad Revealed by Benni McCarthy
Benni McCarthy has shown boldness and belief in local talent. His final selection features players from the FKF Premier League and Kenya’s youth setups. His message is clear—this is a team built to fight, not just participate.
Leading the squad is left-back Aboud Omar, a seasoned defender who has captained the national side before. He will be flanked by vice-captains Daniel Sakari and Alphonce Omija, adding stability and leadership across all thirds of the pitch.
The goalkeeper department includes the experienced Faruk Shikhalo, alongside Sebastian Wekesa and Byrne Omondi, both of whom impressed during recent domestic campaigns. Shikhalo is expected to start, but McCarthy has praised Wekesa’s shot-stopping and Omondi’s composure under pressure.
In defence, McCarthy has gone for a robust mix of experience and youthful energy. Alongside Omar, the backline features Siraj Mohammed, Michael Kibwage, and Sylvester Owino, all of whom have earned reputations for their aggressive marking and ability to read the game.
Daniel Sakari adds pace and stamina on the right flank, while Alphonce Omija brings aerial strength and leadership at center back.
Notably, McCarthy has included three rising stars—Manzur Suleiman from the Kenya U-20 team, Swaleh Pamba, and Kevin Okumu—as a signal of trust in the next generation. Lewis Bandi, a reliable left-sided defender, completes the 8-man defensive unit.
In midfield, the squad boasts creativity, energy, and tactical flexibility. Alpha Onyango and Brian Musa are expected to anchor the middle of the park. Austine Odhiambo brings flair and quick feet, while Ben Stanley and Marvin Nabwire offer control and attacking intent.
McCarthy has emphasized ball retention and quick transitions—skills this midfield group is expected to deliver.
Kenya’s Attacking Arsenal Ready for CHAN Test
Up front, the spotlight will shine on veteran striker Masoud Juma, who leads the line with strength and experience. Juma is no stranger to high-pressure matches and will be central to Kenya’s goal-scoring hopes.
Supporting him are Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, and Ryan Ogam, all of whom bring speed and versatility. Ogam has particularly impressed in local competitions with his relentless pressing and goal threat.
McCarthy’s selection also features exciting first-time call-ups: David Sakwa, Austin Odongo, and Felix Oluoch. These fresh faces will inject hunger and unpredictability, key ingredients in a tournament where surprises are common.
This is not just a squad of individuals but a team built on chemistry, pace, and purpose. McCarthy’s training sessions have focused on attacking transitions, pressing triggers, and compact defensive shapes—tactics tailored for CHAN’s fast-paced environment.
Kenya will face seasoned sides like Morocco, Zambia, and Rwanda in a tough group, but McCarthy believes the home advantage and his players’ hunger to shine will tip the balance. [Photo: Courtesy]
Kenya’s Debut at CHAN Brings Hopes and Pressure
This CHAN edition holds extra weight for the Harambee Stars—it’s a debut on home soil. Kenya’s co-hosting status means expectations are enormous, both from fans and football authorities.
CHAN 2024 provides an opportunity for Kenyan-based players to prove they can compete at a continental level without relying on foreign-based stars.
Benni McCarthy, who has vast experience both as a former Bafana Bafana striker and as a successful club coach, is under the spotlight. But he remains confident.
“This squad reflects the quality of football in Kenya. We are not here to participate. We are here to compete and make Kenyans proud,” McCarthy said during the squad announcement.
Kenya is grouped alongside seasoned sides like Morocco, Zambia, and Rwanda. While the group is tough, McCarthy believes the home advantage and the players’ hunger to shine will tip the balance.
The Harambee Stars will kick off their campaign on August 3 in Nairobi. Training camps are already underway in Machakos and Kisumu, with fans showing up in numbers to cheer on their team.
Final 25-Man Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 Squad
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Sebastian Wekesa, Byrne Omondi Defenders: Aboud Omar (captain), Siraj Mohammed, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Michael Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Manzur Suleiman, Swaleh Pamba, Kevin Okumu, Lewis Bandi Midfielders: Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire Forwards: Masoud Juma, Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, Ryan Ogam, David Sakwa, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch
NAIROBI, Kenya, July 21, 2025 – Harambee Stars have withdrawn from the Cecafa Four-Nations Tournament that was set to kick off today (July 21) in Arusha, Tanzania.
In a statement, the federation said the decision was informed by technical advice from head coach Benni McCarthy.
“This decision has been made following recommendations and advice from the team’s technical bench, led by Head Coach Benni McCarthy, after a thorough assessment of the prevailing conditions, which were deemed unsuitable for the team’s participation and overall preparation,” the statement read.
The national team were to use the week-long tourney as preparations for the upcoming Africa Nations Championships (CHAN), which Kenya is to co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
They were to face the hosts on Monday at 3:00 pm at the Karatu Stadium before meeting Uganda and CHAN defending champions Senegal, within the week.
Following the development, the team will return to Kenya to continue their preparations for the continental competition.
“The team will return to Kenya and resume preparations for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, with full focus now shifting to ensuring optimal readiness for the assignment ahead,” the federation said.
McCarthy and his boys had jetted out of the country on Saturday morning for the tournament, which the tactician had intended to gauge the players before naming the final team.
Stars kick off their maiden CHAN campaign against the Democratic Republic of Congo on August 3 at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.
NAIROBI, Kenya, May 27, 2025 – Former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama has come out of retirement to rejoin the national team.
The former Tottenham midfielder is part of a 25-man provisional squad named on Tuesday evening by head coach Benni McCarthy for next month’s international friendly against Chad.
Over the weekend, Wanyama had revealed to BBC Sport Africa that he was mulling over a return to the national team following prodding by McCarthy.
Wanyama, however, was then non-committal, only promising to make an announcement soon.
The midfield lynchpin last donned the national jersey in November 2020 when Kenya lost to Comoros by a solitary goal in their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
He, shortly after, hang his boots in September 2021 albeit there were discussions around bringing him back to the national team in December 2022.
The discussions were spearheaded by then Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba who argued that Wanyama still had a lot to contribute to Harambee Stars.
Double header friendly
Stars will face the central Africans on June 7 and 10 in Morocco in what will be McCarthy’s third and fourth matches in charge of the national team.
The South African has thus far drawn once and lost once — a 3-3 draw and 2-1 loss to Gabon in their 2026 World Cup qualifier in March.
Kenya are preparing to co-host the Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) in August, alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
A glaring absence from Tuesday’s squad is skipper Michael Olunga who plies his trade for Al Duhail in Qatar.
Benni McCarthy named his first Harambee Stars squad, which had many familiar faces and had been the team’s backbone.
He initially picked 50 players but later trimmed the list for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.
Among the players who traveled to Ivory Coast for the Gambia match, a few new names appeared. However, none stood out more than William Lenkupae.
Who is William Lenkupae?
William Lenkupae Wilson is one of the newest faces in Kenyan football, bringing fresh talent to the national team.
The 23-year-old midfielder plays for Central Coast Mariners in Australia but has now set his sights on representing Harambee Stars.
Born in Australia on December 23, 2001, Lenkupae grew up in a football-loving environment. Despite his roots in Australia, he has never played for the Socceroos, making him eligible to switch allegiance to Kenya.
With his technical skills, vision, and ability to control the midfield, Lenkupae is expected to be a key addition to the Harambee Stars.
Fans are eager to see how he performs on the international stage as Kenya prepares for more crucial World Cup qualifiers.
Club Career
Lenkupae began his professional career with Melbourne Victory, making his debut in an FFA Cup playoff match against Perth Glory on November 24, 2021.
He played his first A-League match on February 16, 2022, against Western Sydney Wanderers and earned his first start in a New Year’s Eve fixture against Central Coast Mariners.
After two seasons with Victory, the club released him on August 26, 2023. He then signed with Central Coast Mariners, where he quickly made an impact.
Lenkupae debuted in an AFC Cup match in Malaysia and scored his first A-League goal in an F3 Derby win on November 25, 2023.
He played a key role in the Mariners’ 2023-24 A-League Premiership and their AFC Cup-winning campaign.
Personal life
In March 2025, William Lenkupae received his first call-up to the Kenyan national team for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.
He made an instant impact on his debut on March 20, scoring in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia.
Born in Australia but with Kenyan roots from the Samburu community, Lenkupae chose to represent Harambee Stars over the Socceroos, adding fresh talent to Kenya’s midfield.
William Wilson Lenkupae’s stats
According to Transfermarkt, William Lenkupae stands at 1.70m tall and has a market value of €150,000 (approximately 22.1 million Ksh).
This season, he has made six appearances for Central Coast Mariners but hasn’t featured since January 11, when he came off the bench in a 4-1 loss to Sydney FC.
His club, Central Coast Mariners, plays at the 20,000-seater stadium in Gosford and currently sits 10th in the standings. Their last victory came on January 17 as they struggled to climb up the league table.
Choosing Kenya Over Australia
Born and raised in Australia, William Lenkupae qualified to play for Kenya through his parentage. Although he never featured for Australia at the youth level, he remained eligible for a Harambee Stars call-up.
After discussions with head coach Benni McCarthy, Lenkupae felt Kenya was the right choice for his international career.
“I spoke to the coach, and he put a good idea in my head. I thought this was perfect for me. I’ve always been in touch with this place,” Lenkupae said.
Francis Kimanzi is back in the spotlight, but this time, he’s shaping the future of Kenyan football.
The former Harambee Stars head coach has been named FKF Development Director, a role that puts him in charge of nurturing talent and strengthening football structures.
With over 20 years of coaching experience, Kimanzi is set to make a lasting impact on the sport. Here’s what his appointment means for Kenyan football’s future.
Will Francis Kimanzi Unlock a New Chapter for Kenyan Football?
Veteran coach Francis Kimanzi has taken on a crucial new role at the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). The former Harambee Stars head coach is now FKF’s Development Director, a position that puts him at the heart of shaping Kenya’s football future.
The federation announced Kimanzi’s appointment on Thursday, highlighting his vast experience in the sport.
With over 20 years in coaching, he brings the knowledge and leadership needed to develop football talent and improve FKF’s structures.
Kimanzi’s Role in FKF’s Vision
FKF CEO Harold Ndege expressed confidence in Kimanzi’s ability to lead the country’s football development.
“Francis Kimanzi has an extensive background in Kenyan football. His leadership will help strengthen our structures, nurture local talent, and create sustainable growth in the sport,” Ndege said. “We believe he will play a key role in shaping the future of Kenyan football.”
The Federation aims to build a strong foundation for young players and improve coaching standards.
Kimanzi’s task will include overseeing training programs, scouting new talent, and working with clubs to enhance the country’s football performance.
Kimanzi’s Coaching Journey
Before stepping into this new position, Kimanzi had a rich coaching career. He previously led Mathare United and Tusker FC, two of Kenya’s top clubs.
He also served as an interim coach for Harambee Stars, taking over after Engin Firat left at the end of last year.
During his tenure, Kimanzi led the national team at the Mapinduzi Cup in January, held in Zanzibar. His coaching expertise kept Kenya competitive, even as FKF searched for a permanent head coach.
Earlier this month, FKF appointed former South African international Benni McCarthy as the new Harambee Stars head coach.
McCarthy, 47, previously worked with Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff at Manchester United. He has signed a contract running through the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
Looking Ahead
As FKF’s Development Director, Kimanzi faces a major task. He must lay a solid foundation for future generations of Kenyan footballers.
His experience and understanding of local football will be vital in identifying and nurturing young talent.
Kenyan football is at a crucial turning point. With a clear strategy and strong leadership, FKF hopes to elevate the sport to new heights.
Benni McCarthy has taken on a new challenge as the head coach of Kenya’s Harambee Stars! The South African football legend, known for his lethal finishing and tactical brilliance, is now steering the national team to greater heights.
But beyond the touchline, fans are curious—how much is Benni McCarthy’s net worth in 2025? From his glory days as a Bafana Bafana striker to his coaching career, McCarthy has built a remarkable legacy.
Here’s a deep dive into his journey, wealth, coaching milestones, and personal life.
What is Benni McCarthy Net Worth?
Benni McCarthy, a former South African soccer player, has a net worth of $16 million. Born in Cape Town, he started playing soccer with Young Pirates and Crusaders as a youth.
At 17, Seven Stars signed him in 1995. He played there until 1997 before moving to Ajax, where he stayed until 1999.
Celta Vigo signed him in 1999, but in 2002, they loaned him to Porto. A year later, Porto acquired him for €7.86 million.
In 2006, McCarthy joined Blackburn Rovers. He later moved to West Ham United in 2010 and then played for Orlando Pirates from 2011 to 2013.
McCarthy represented South Africa internationally from 1997 to 2012, becoming Bafana Bafana’s all-time top scorer with 32 goals.
He won several major titles, including the Eredivisie, KNVB Cup, UEFA Intertoto Cup, Portuguese Liga, Portuguese Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
In 1998, he teamed up with the music group TKZee for the hit song “Shibobo.”
How old is Benni McCarthy?
Benni McCarthy was born in Cape Town on November 12, 1977, to Dudley and Dora McCarthy.
His older brother, Jerome McCarthy, played professional football for South African clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and Manning Rangers.
His younger brother, Mark McCarthy, played football in the United States at Franklin Pierce University.
Profile Summary
Name
Benedict Saul McCarthy
Net Worth
$16 Million
Birthdate
Nov 12, 1977 (47 years old)
Birthplace
Cape Town
Gender
Male
Height
6 ft (1.83 m)
Profession
Football player/Coach
Nationality
South Africa
Professional Career
Benni McCarthy began his football career in 1995 at just 18 years old with South African club Seven Stars.
In his first season, he scored one goal in 29 matches. The following season, he found his rhythm, netting 12 goals in 20 games. His impressive performance earned him a move to Cape Town Spurs.
Two years later, Seven Stars and Cape Town Spurs merged to form Ajax Cape Town, a feeder team for Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam.
McCarthy shined at the 1997 African Youth Championship and FIFA World Youth Championship, catching the attention of Ajax Amsterdam. The Dutch club signed him, giving him a chance to showcase his talent in Europe.
McCarthy put South Africa on the football map as Bafana Bafana’s all-time top scorer, netting 31 goals in 76 matches.
Fans back home fondly call him “Benni.” He won titles with South African giants Orlando Pirates and European clubs like Ajax Amsterdam, Celta Vigo, FC Porto, Blackburn Rovers, and West Ham United.
After retiring, McCarthy smoothly transitioned into coaching. He started as head coach at Cape Town City before leading AmaZulu.
His career took a huge leap when he became a first-team coach at Manchester United.
During his two-year stay at Ajax Amsterdam, McCarthy scored 10 goals in the 1997-98 season, helping the club win the league title.
The next season, he improved with 11 goals. His performances led to a €6 million transfer to Spanish La Liga club Celta Vigo, making him the most expensive South African player at the time. However, he struggled at Celta Vigo, scoring only 22 goals in 96 games.
After three seasons, the club loaned him to Portuguese side FC Porto, who were struggling at the time. At Porto, McCarthy revived his career.
In the 2001-2002 season, he scored 13 goals in just 12 games. His outstanding form convinced Porto to make his move permanent.
McCarthy’s Coaching Career
After retiring in 2013, Benni McCarthy pursued a coaching career and earned his UEFA Pro License.
He started coaching in April 2015 with the U20s at Scottish club Hibernian while working on his coaching badges.
After a brief stint as an assistant coach at Belgian club Sint-Truidense, he left for personal reasons. McCarthy got his first head coach role on June 13, 2017, when Cape Town City appointed him.
In 2018, he led them to their first trophy, the MTN8. However, after winning just two of his last 18 games, the club dismissed him on November 4, 2019.
On December 14, 2020, AmaZulu hired McCarthy as head coach. He excelled, guiding the club to second place in the South African league during the 2020-21 season—their best-ever finish.
Under his leadership, AmaZulu qualified for the CAF Champions League and reached the group stages. Despite this success, the club sacked him on March 25, 2022.
In July 2022, McCarthy landed his biggest coaching role when Manchester United appointed him as an attacking coach under Erik ten Hag. He held the position for two years until June 2024.
McCarthy won titles with South African giants Orlando Pirates and European clubs like Ajax Amsterdam, Celta Vigo, FC Porto, Blackburn Rovers, and West Ham United [p/courtes]
Personal Life
In 2004, Benni McCarthy married Maria Santos from Spain. They had three daughters together—Minna, Mya, and Allegra. However, the couple separated in 2007.
In May 2014, McCarthy married Scottish model Stacey Munro. They have two children together—a daughter, Lima Rose, born in 2012, and a son, Lio Romero, born in 2019.
Benni McCarthy Net Worth, Awards and Recognitions
Benni McCarthy has earned several awards and recognitions throughout his football career, both as a player and a coach.
Club Awards
UEFA Champions League – Won in 2004 with FC Porto.
Golden Boot – Scored 20 goals in 23 matches to win the award in 2004 with FC Porto.
South African Premier Soccer League – Won with Orlando Pirates.
International Achievements
Represented South Africa in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups.
Became Bafana Bafana’s all-time top scorer with 31 goals.
Coaching Career
Managed Cape Town City from 2017 to 2019.
Currently Coaching Kenya’s Harambee Stars.
Other Recognitions
Played for top European clubs, including Ajax Amsterdam, Celta Vigo, and FC Porto.
Became a key player for Bafana Bafana throughout his career.
Retired from professional football in 2013 at 35 years old.
Kenya named former South Africa international Benni McCarthy as coach on Monday, some three weeks before they resume their World Cup qualification campaign.
He will debut later this month with an away match against The Gambia followed by a home clash with Gabon.
Kenya trail leaders Ivory Coast by five points in World Cup qualifying Group F but have six matches to play.
The group winners qualify for the finals with the four best runners-up having the chance to progress via a second round.
Kenya will co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals with Tanzania and Uganda but did qualify for the 2025 finals in Morocco.
McCarthy, unveiled at a press conference in Nairobi, was last on the staff at Manchester United for two seasons under manager Erik ten Hag, working as a coach for the strikers.
His previous managerial experience has been at South African clubs Cape Town City and AmaZulu.
The 47-year-old McCarthy, who won 80 caps for South Africa and scored at the 1998 and 2002 World Cups, played in the Premier League for Blackburn Rovers and West Ham United. He lifted the Champions League with Porto in 2004.
