Benni McCarthy reveals he was close to coaching Soweto giants, here is the latest.
Bafana Bafana legend McCarthy recently revealed that he came very close to becoming the head coach of Orlando Pirates before a last-minute decision by club boss Irvin Khoza derailed the move. Speaking candidly during a Radio 2000 interview on the Game On show, McCarthy reflected on the missed opportunity, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes talks.
McCarthy, who has enjoyed a distinguished playing career and coaching stints with top clubs, had discussions with Pirates’ chairman Irvin Khoza about returning to the club as head coach. “There was [a chance] once upon a time, way before Jose Riveiro came to Pirates,” McCarthy shared. “I did speak with the chairman [Dr. Irvin Khoza]. It was almost a done deal; it was kind of me going back to coach Orlando Pirates.”
However, despite the talks reaching an advanced stage, Khoza ultimately chose a coach with more experience to take the reins. McCarthy continued, “I think the Chairman at the last minute decided to go for someone with more experience because, like I said, I didn’t have a lot of coaching experience.”
McCarthy believes he could have led Pirates to greatness
Despite the move falling through, McCarthy remains confident that he would have succeeded in leading the Buccaneers to greater heights. Reflecting on the quality of players at Pirates at the time, McCarthy said, “I think I would have done an amazing job because of the players Pirates had at the time. Not even Sundowns could have come close.” He went on to praise the influence of proper coaching in the success of Mamelodi Sundowns under Pitso Mosimane, adding, “But Sundowns had coach Pitso then and were able to achieve everything they have done because they were coached properly by a proper coach.”
For McCarthy, his potential success at Pirates would have been built on the talent the team boasted at that time. And he believes it could have led to explosive results.
McCarthy’s link to other coaching jobs
Despite his near-move to Orlando Pirates, McCarthy’s name has continued to surface in connection with other top South African clubs, particularly when managerial positions open up. McCarthy acknowledged this, stating, “People were connecting me to coaching Pirates and Chiefs. When there is a vacancy my name gets thrown in. But I think it was also to attract other coaches when it looked like Benni McCarthy is close to signing for one of those two teams.”
For McCarthy, the speculation around his coaching career has become a regular feature in the media. Despite the reality that no formal offer has materialized since that pivotal moment with Pirates.
Reflecting on his coaching journey
Now back in South Africa as an ambassador for the Carling Cup. McCarthy is no stranger to the local football scene. Having recently parted ways with Manchester United, where he served as the striker coach for two seasons. McCarthy is enjoying some time back home, which raises the question of whether he could one day return to coach a South African club. While nothing is confirmed, McCarthy’s passion for the game and his deep understanding of local football make him a key figure to watch in future coaching discussions.
Although Benni McCarthy’s near-move to Orlando Pirates didn’t come to fruition. His comments suggest he was more than ready to take on the challenge. With a wealth of playing and coaching experience, McCarthy could still make a powerful impact in South African football in the future. Pirates fans, and football lovers alike, may yet see the legendary striker take charge of a local club.
Stay tuned with The South African as Benni McCarthy reveals he was close to coaching the Soweto Giants.
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