McCarthy Reveals How Ajax Move Changed His Life Ahead of Harambee Stars Role

Benni McCarthy the newly appointed Harambee Stars head coach has revealed how daring leap early in his career became the defining moment of his life.

The former South African striker who etched his name in history as the only South African to win the Champions League, credits his 1997 move from Cape Town to Ajax Amsterdam as the turning point in both his life and football journey.

"Signing for Ajax Amsterdam was the most standout moment of my career. Coming from the hardships of Cape Flats, it was about rising out of poverty and reaching the top of the pyramid in european football" McCarthy told CGTN.

McCarthy went on to shine at FC Porto where he won the champions league before spells in the Premier League with Blackburn Rovers and later returning home to Orlando Pirates.

Ten Hag Backs McCarthy at Manchester United

Though his current deal at Man United ends this month, manager Erik ten Hag's reportedly keen to retain McCarthy who played vital role in reviving Marcus Rashford and guiding Rasmus Hojlund to record goal streak in 2022 /23.

Despite this, McCarthy 46, has shown interest in returning to African football even expressing willingness to coach Kaizer Chiefs if his time in Manchester ends.

A Role Model Beyond Football

In moving interview on Radio 2000, McCarthy opened up about his lifelong decision to abstain from alcohol shaped by witnessing his father's violent behavior under the influence.

"They give me money not to be nice but to score goals" he once said , but off the pitch, his mission's clear: to break toxic cycles and be positive influence for the next generation.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.