Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy has hit back at his critics in Kenya, revealing that he and his entire Harambee Stars technical team have been operating without work permits for over a year and a half.
The 48-year-old tactician was appointed Harambee Stars head coach in March 2025 alongside assistant Vasili Manousakis, goalkeeper coach Moeneeb Josephs, and analyst Pilela Maposa.
However, off-field administrative turmoil has continuously plagued his tenure—including ongoing player allowance disputes ahead of their CAF 2027 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] qualifiers.
Addressing growing criticism from local media accusing him of flying out immediately after international matches rather than staying to monitor domestic football, a visibly frustrated McCarthy set the record straight.
In an interview with sports journalist Kevin Teya, McCarthy expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Football Kenya Federation [FKF] over their failure to finalise his legal documentation despite multiple promises.
BENNI MCCARTHY HITS BACK AT CRITICS OVER KENYA ABSENCES
“We sat with the federation about this issue because, for me, that’s the biggest issue,” McCarthy stated. “I see what goes on around the world regarding immigration and illegal status. It’s horrible, especially for people who look like me.
“When I came here, the federation promised they were working on it. But a year and a half later, you get tired of asking. Your words end up falling on deaf ears, and that’s where things stand between us and the federation.”
“I HAVE NO REASON TO BE HERE ILLEGALLY” – BENNI
McCarthy admitted his frustration boiled over after reading local media reports questioning his commitment to the national team.
“When I saw those reports, it hit hard. People wonder why we are never here, but I never want to be questioned by authorities for being in someone else’s country illegally,” McCarthy explained. “So I come here, do my job, and when my job is finished, I get out because I have no legal reason to stay.”
He added: “It’s a massive problem for me, even if it doesn’t seem like a problem for the people we work for. So far, we’ve just been fortunate that it hasn’t come to light until now.”
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