Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has opened up on the possibility of linking Kenyan players to top clubs across Europe.

Speaking on Monday night, April 7, 2025, Benni told a local TV station that he would be open to tapping into his extensive network and connecting Kenyan players to some of the biggest clubs in the European leagues.

For instance, Benni indicated that he was willing to contact Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo, recommending a player for their consideration.

He talked in detail about his relationship with Nuno, stating that their friendship was built when they both played for FC Porto. According to Benni, Nuno’s ability to bring out raw talent is among the driving factors why he would consider suggesting players to him.

He, however, noted that it would only be possible once his coaching staff is fully settled in the country and understands the basic details regarding players’ profiles

“First, we need to settle. Once we settle, if you have players that you think are worthy of playing for top teams, it will be nothing to pick up the phone and call, for example, Nottingham Forest. The manager was one of my close friends when we played in Porto,” Benni stated.

“So it will cost me nothing to call Nuno and say I have got a player here, maybe have a look at him,” he added while jokingly mentioning Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma.

Ambition in Kenya

The Harambee Stars coach explained that so far, he had been moved by the ambition of local players. From a few interactions he has had, the former Manchester United striker’s gaffer maintained that most players have wowed him with their ambitions to feature in top European outfits.

According to the South African talisman, talent exportation to Europe would help Harambee Stars thrive and hit major milestones in the footballing world.

“What I have experienced here in Kenya is that many players are going to Europe. They are not afraid of stepping out of their comfort zone because they believe they can make it in Europe,” Benni told the local TV station.

“When you talk to players in the national team, they have great aspirations. That is my type of player. How can you not be excited about players with those kinds of ambitions, because for you to get to Europe, you have to have success in your national team?” he posed.