Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has hit back at criticism from Kenyan football supporters following his team's inconsistent performances in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, insisting that negative comments do not affect him because he has developed a thick skin throughout his coaching career.

The 48-year-old South African was appointed Harambee Stars manager in March 2025 and has experienced both encouraging and difficult periods since taking charge of the national team. One of his major achievements was guiding Kenya to the quarter-finals of last year's Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

However, Kenya have struggled to maintain consistent performances in the ongoing AFCON qualifying campaign. The team managed just one point from their September fixtures against Guinea and Eritrea, leaving them at the bottom of Group D.

Although Kenya have already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament as one of the co-host nations, McCarthy is determined to use the remaining qualifying fixtures to prepare his squad for the competition.

Their disappointing results have sparked frustration among supporters, with some questioning the coach's team selections and the overall performances of the national side. Responding during an interview with SportyTV, McCarthy argued that many fans criticise the technical team without understanding the challenges they face behind the scenes.

“You’re always going to get a backlash because people don’t know the ins and outs of what goes on,” McCarthy said.

The former Bafana Bafana striker revealed that several players have been unavailable for international duty because of disagreements and other problems within Kenyan football. This has sometimes forced the coaching staff to consider alternative options rather than selecting their preferred players.

McCarthy believes supporters are quick to judge the technical team's decisions without considering the circumstances influencing their selections.

He also disclosed that the coaching staff have reportedly gone three months without receiving their salaries, describing it as another major challenge affecting their work. The former Manchester United first-team coach questioned whether those criticising them would be prepared to continue performing their duties under similar financial circumstances.

McCarthy further explained that he has taken on the responsibility of managing a national team outside his home country despite allegedly working without payment. Nevertheless, he maintained that he remains committed to his role and will not allow public criticism to interfere with his responsibilities.

“I’ve got a crocodile skin anyway, man. Doesn’t really bother me what people think or say. They don’t make a scratch in my life,” he added.

The South African tactician will now be focused on improving Kenya's performances as preparations continue for the 2027 AFCON tournament. He will also be looking ahead to the upcoming encounter against Bafana Bafana, which will see him face his home country in another important chapter of his coaching career.

Source: https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/sa-stars-abroad/benni-on-recent-backlash-in-kenya/