McCarthy targets 9 foreign stars for AFCON 2027
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has launched a push to recruit nine foreign-based players as Kenya prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
McCarthy said strengthening the squad with players eligible through heritage or dual nationality is key to building a competitive team ahead of the continental tournament. “We want the best Kenyan talent wherever they are playing,” McCarthy said. “If they qualify and want to represent the country, the door is open.”
The former South Africa striker added that expanding the player pool will raise competition in the squad. “Quality competition improves the team,” he noted. “Every player must fight for their place.”
Kenya hopes the recruitment drive will help assemble a stronger squad as preparations intensify for the 2027 AFCON on home soil.