McCarthy's Message To Harambee Stars: Rome Wasn't Built In A Day – Patience Is Key

David

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Post on Jun 10, 2025

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McCarthy's Message to Harambee Stars: Rome Wasn't Built in a Day – Patience is Key

Kenya's football hopes hinge on a new era under coach Engin Firat, but patience is paramount, says former coach and football legend, Gordon Igesund.

The appointment of Engin Firat as the new Harambee Stars head coach has ignited a renewed sense of hope among Kenyan football fans. Following the departure of former coach, Jacob "Ghost" Mulee, expectations are high, but seasoned football expert and former Bafana Bafana coach, Gordon Igesund, urges caution and patience. In a recent interview, Igesund echoed a sentiment shared by many – that building a successful national team takes time and dedication. His message to the Harambee Stars squad, and to the passionate Kenyan fans, is simple: Rome wasn't built in a day.

Igesund, a respected figure in African football, understands the pressures and challenges facing a national team coach. He emphasizes the importance of a long-term vision and a commitment to developing young talent. "Building a winning team is a process," he stated, "It requires consistent effort, strategic planning, and above all, patience." His words resonate deeply, particularly considering the recent inconsistencies and setbacks faced by Harambee Stars.

The Long Road to Success: A Holistic Approach

Igesund's comments highlight several crucial factors often overlooked in the pursuit of immediate results:

• Youth Development: Investing in youth academies and providing opportunities for young players is vital for long-term success. This ensures a steady pipeline of talent for the national team. Kenya needs to focus on robust youth development programs to mirror successful nations like Senegal or Morocco.

• Tactical Flexibility and Adaptability: A modern national team needs a coach who can adapt their tactics based on opponents and playing conditions. This requires a deep understanding of the game and the ability to instill versatility within the squad.

• Stronger League Infrastructure: A strong domestic league is essential for nurturing talent and providing players with the necessary experience to compete at the international level. Improving the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) is crucial for the overall growth of Kenyan football.

• National Unity and Support: The success of any national team hinges on the unity and support of the entire nation. Fans, sponsors, and the government must work together to create a positive and supportive environment for the team.

Learning from Past Experiences: A Call for Realistic Expectations

Kenya's football journey hasn't always been smooth. Past disappointments, including failures to qualify for major tournaments, should serve as lessons, not reasons for despair. Igesund's message serves as a reminder that building a consistently competitive team requires a long-term strategy, meticulous planning, and unwavering support.

The pressure on Firat is undeniable, but Igesund's message is clear: patience is a virtue. While the desire for immediate success is understandable, sustainable success in football, like in any other field, requires a sustained commitment to the process.

The Path Forward: Hope and Realism

The future of Harambee Stars is not solely reliant on the coach. The entire football ecosystem, from grassroots development to the national team, needs a comprehensive overhaul. This requires collaboration between the football federation, the government, sponsors, and the fans.

Ultimately, Igesund's message of patience provides a crucial perspective. While hope remains high for the future of Harambee Stars under Firat, understanding the complexities involved in building a winning national team is critical. The journey may be long, but with dedication, strategic planning, and a collective effort, Kenya's football dream can become a reality. Are you ready to be patient with the journey? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.