McCarthy's appointment came as a surprise to many. Not only was it his first time coaching a national team, but it also followed his departure from English Premier League giants Manchester United, where he served as a first-team coach. Given his pedigree, many expected him to pursue a high-profile club role overseas.

However, McCarthy instead chose to join the Harambee Stars, initially naming an all-South African technical bench.

He has since expanded his coaching team by bringing in former Kenya international Anthony Kimani as a second assistant coach. McCarthy's next assignment with Harambee Stars will be the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup, scheduled to take place in June in Kenya.

--ChannelAfrica--