Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has dropped a major revelation, stating that he and his entire technical bench have gone three months without receiving their salaries, even as Kenya prepares for a crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Africa.

Speaking to Sporty TV on Monday, November 9, 2026, the South African tactician made it clear that while players finally received outstanding allowances after earlier disputes, the coaching staff have received nothing.

“The technical staff have received nothing,” McCarthy said. “People don’t know that the technical team hasn’t been paid for three months. The authorities will have to come good and pay us, and FIFA and CAF may have to intervene in this situation.”

The former Manchester United forwards coach and Bafana Bafana star insisted the unpaid salaries will not stop him from doing his job. His priority, he stressed, remains improving the national team and leaving Kenyan football in a better place than he found it.

“At the end of the day, my job is to go out there and leave Kenya in a better position than I found it. We are professional enough to go out there and do our job. After the football matches, we can fight for what is worth fighting for.”

This fresh salary crisis comes weeks after players boycotted training over unpaid allowances ahead of Kenya’s opening 2027 AFCON qualifiers against Eritrea and Guinea. McCarthy personally intervened to get the squad back on the pitch, and most players eventually received their dues following pressure on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the government.

Kenya managed only one point from those two matches and now faces a tough Group D clash with South Africa.

McCarthy’s comments highlight ongoing administrative and financial challenges within Kenyan football. Similar issues have plagued previous regimes, with past coaches also complaining of delayed payments.

The coach has previously raised concerns about work permits for himself and foreign staff members, adding another layer of frustration to the setup.

Despite the turmoil, McCarthy remains focused on the pitch. He has repeatedly emphasized professionalism and the need for accountability from those running the game.

The salary delays risk further disruption if left unresolved, especially with important qualifiers still ahead and Kenya co-hosting the 2027 AFCON alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Football Kenya Federation and the Ministry of Sports have yet to issue a detailed public response to the latest claims.

The situation underscores the urgent need for better financial management in Kenyan football to support both players and coaches as the team aims to climb the continental rankings and make a strong showing in the upcoming tournament.

0

Be the first to comment on this article.