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Kenyatta, a former Harambee Stars shot-stopper, has explained why he is the best man to take over the coaching helm from the recently departed Engin Firat.
Former Kakamega Homeboyz coach Kenneth Kenyatta has boldly declared his readiness to take over as the Harambee Stars head coach, following the resignation of Engin Firat earlier this week.
Firat’s departure marked the end of a three-year stint marred by disappointing performances, with the Turkish tactician securing only three wins out of the 16 competitive matches he oversaw since taking over in September 2021.
With many stakeholders now advocating for a local coach to helm the national team, Kenyatta has stepped forward, asserting that he is the ideal candidate for the job. Drawing on his extensive experience as both a player and a coach, Kenyatta is confident he can lead the team to greater heights.
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“I am more than ready to coach Harambee Stars. My records, both as a player and a coach, speak for themselves. I have the papers and have gathered sufficient coaching experience to take the team to the next level,” Kenyatta stated in remarks published by Mozzart Sport.
Kenyatta, a CAF A license holder, boasts an impressive résumé. His playing career for the national team spanned seven years, from 1990 to 1997, while his coaching credentials include stints with Ushuru FC, FC Talanta, and most recently, Kakamega Homeboyz. Despite parting ways with Homeboyz in October after a humbling 5-1 defeat to KCB, Kenyatta remains undeterred.
He insists that his understanding of the national team’s culture, combined with his coaching expertise, makes him uniquely qualified for the role. However, he acknowledges past criticisms about his methods, often labeled as outdated, but asserts that he has evolved to meet the demands of modern football.
“People criticise my philosophy and training methods a lot, which I find to be ignorant. I have been incorporating technology in training and in my approach to matches, and I intend to do so with the national team,” Kenyatta said.
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Should he be appointed, Kenyatta is promising a transformative era for Harambee Stars, including a strong push for the team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Stars are set to resume their qualification campaign in March next year, facing Gambia and Gabon.
“We still have a chance to qualify for the World Cup. With good preparations, we can make history next year,” Kenyatta emphasized.
Kenyatta believes that if granted the same support and privileges afforded to Firat, he can change the team’s fortunes. He envisions building a competitive squad capable of not only excelling in the qualification campaign but also leaving a lasting impact on the global stage.
While Kenyatta’s bid to become the next Harambee Stars coach has sparked interest, it has also reignited debate on whether the national team should be led by a local or foreign coach. Kenyatta, however, remains unwavering in his belief that he is the right man for the job, drawing confidence from his years of experience and evolving coaching strategies.
With the clock ticking towards March, the decision on who will guide Harambee Stars in their World Cup qualification journey now rests with Football Kenya Federation, and Kenyatta is keenly waiting in the wings.
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