Benni McCarthy opens door to Bafana Bafana coaching role

Speculation around Broos' successor has intensified in recent months after the Belgian confirmed that he plans to leave the national team following the tournament in North America. Since taking charge in 2021, Broos has helped revive South Africa's fortunes, guiding the side to a bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and restoring a sense of consistency at international level.

With the South African Football Association expected to begin discussions over the next permanent coach, names such as Pitso Mosimane, Rulani Mokwena and McCarthy have all been linked with the role.

McCarthy has now addressed the growing talk publicly, making it clear that the opportunity to lead his country would be difficult to turn down.

"I think a lot of people will be interested in the job to coach Bafana. But if I'm asked, of course I would. It's my country. It's the national team," McCarthy told KICK OFF Magazine.

The former Orlando Pirates and Blackburn Rovers striker believes the current generation of players gives South Africa a genuine platform to compete for honours in the coming years.

"So it's a very good time to achieve things with this group of players, with the calibre and quality that they have," he said.

McCarthy's comments will further fuel suggestions that he could eventually succeed Broos, particularly after gaining valuable experience as a first-team coach at Manchester United before moving into international management with the Kenya national football team.

However, the 47-year-old also hinted that the timing of any potential move could be complicated by his desire to return to club football.

"So, yeah, if the chance comes, I don't see why I wouldn't want to coach my national team. But maybe not the next job after the World Cup because I miss club football," he explained.

McCarthy admitted that one of the challenges of international management is the lengthy breaks between matches and training camps, something that contrasts sharply with the fast-paced nature of club football.

He said he missed working with players on a daily basis and preferred the constant involvement that comes with coaching at club level because "there is too much time in between matches for the national team".

For now, McCarthy remains focused on his current role with Kenya as the East African nation builds towards hosting the 2027 AFCON alongside Tanzania and Uganda. But with SAFA expected to decide on Broos' successor in the coming months, his candid admission has ensured his name will remain firmly in the conversation surrounding the future of Bafana Bafana.