Benni McCarthy reveals ‘dream’ Kaizer Chiefs and Man United ambitions

South African football icon Benni McCarthy has been vocal about his long-term career goals, naming Kaizer Chiefs and Manchester United as the two destinations he aims to lead from the dugout.

The 48-year-old, currently serving as the head coach of the Kenya national team, made the comments in Cape Town during the launch of his biography, BENNI, written by veteran journalist Mark Gleeson.

McCarthy spent two seasons as a first-team coach at Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag before taking the Kenya job. Despite his success abroad and a legendary playing stint with Orlando Pirates, McCarthy admitted his childhood allegiance lies with the Glamour Boys.

“I was a first-team coach, I’m giving myself a little bit of time,” McCarthy said during the book launch Q&A in Johannesburg on Wednesday. “Maybe in five to 10 years, I want to be the head coach of Man United.

Benni’s Bold Admission: ‘I want to coach Kaizer Chiefs and Man United’

“And in South Africa, I’ve always been a Kaizer Chiefs supporter. I want to coach the two clubs that I grew up supporting. So, Man United and Kaizer Chiefs.”

McCarthy’s name is frequently linked with the “Big Three” whenever a coaching vacancy arises in the Betway Premiership. His record in South Africa remains impressive, having led Cape Town City to MTN8 silverware and guided AmaZulu FC to a historic CAF Champions League qualification.

His biography, which features a foreword by his former FC Porto manager Jose Mourinho, details his journey from the Cape Flats to winning the UEFA Champions League. Mourinho described the former striker as having “everything a coach loved in a player.”

For the time being, McCarthy is focused on his international duties. He is currently preparing the Harambee Stars for their upcoming FIFA World Series clash against Estonia during the international break.