Harambee Stars Midfielder Marvine Nabwire on Why Benni McCarthy Will Lead Them to CHAN 2024 Glory

Harambee Stars midfielder Marvine Nabwire has expressed his full confidence in head coach Benni McCarthy’s leadership ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, boldly stating that Kenya can go all the way and lift the trophy.

Nabwire, a key figure in Kenya Police’s 2025 FKF Premier League title-winning season, was among the final players selected in McCarthy’s trimmed 25-man squad last week. 

Speaking from the Police Sacco Stadium on Wednesday, Nabwire called the national team call-up a proud and humbling experience—one that he doesn’t take for granted.

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“It is a fantastic feeling,” he said. “Everyone wants to represent their country. When you get selected, you need to push yourself because you are representing the country.”

Although he suffered a slight knock during the recent 4-0 friendly win over Kenya Police, medical staff have since cleared him to play. His clubmate and close friend Brian Musa, however, wasn’t as lucky—his tournament hopes were dashed after a hamstring injury ruled him out of contention.

“It’s disappointing that Brian won’t be with us,” Nabwire said. “He’s a friend and we understand each other so well on the pitch. But this is football. The competition is stiff, and we all worked hard to be here. Whoever starts will have earned it.”

Kenya has been drawn in Group A alongside tournament heavyweights DR Congo, Morocco, Angola, and Zambia. Despite bookmakers writing off the Harambee Stars’ chances, Nabwire insists that being hosts gives them an edge—and the belief to match.

“I cannot say it is a group of death,” he said. “As a player, you have to be ready. We are not underdogs because we are co-hosting the tournament. We believe we can do it.”

With all their matches set for the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nabwire is relishing the opportunity to perform in front of home fans—and to make a name for himself.

“It is a good opportunity to sell myself and go professional because many scouts and clubs will be watching us. The fans should support us, and we’ll do our best to make them proud.”

“We have learnt a lot from Benni” – trust in the coach runs deep

Since his appointment in March, McCarthy has impressed players and staff alike with his tactical nous and emotional intelligence. For Nabwire, the former Manchester United coach brings not just experience, but belief.

“We have learnt a lot from Benni. He is one of the best coaches in Africa, and I am sure that under his guidance, we have the capability and potential to actually win this cup.”

As Kenya prepares to open its CHAN campaign against DR Congo on Sunday afternoon, Nabwire is hoping to make his minutes on the pitch count—not just for himself, but for the country.