Kenya's men's national football team head coach Benni McCarthy has been linked with a sensational return to South Africa.

McCarthy was appointed in early March to oversee a team that has consistently underperformed despite boasting impeccable talent within its ranks. He came in shortly after Kenya had failed to make it to the Africa Cup of Nations yet again.

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF), led by President Hussein Mohamed, handed the South African international a two-year contract. This, in essence, means that he would be around until the end of AFCON 2027, which Kenya is expected to co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.

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Despite his recent appointment and two-year contract, McCarthy has been linked with a shock return to South Africa.

Goal.com has put his name down as one of the coaches Orlando Pirates could consider as a replacement for the departing Jose Riveiro.

The Spanish tactician informed Pirates leadership he wasn't keen on renewing his contract beyond the current deal, which expires at the end of the season.

"Orlando Pirates Football Club can reveal that José Riveiro will be stepping down from his position as head coach at the end of the season. José Riveiro has informed management of his decision not to renew his contract beyond its current term. The Spanish mentor’s contract is due to expire at the end of this current campaign," read a statement from the club.

Goal has compiled a list of the potential coaches the Bucs could consider. McCarthy's name featured prominently.

"His move to Kenya, though it may appear as a step down, was driven by a deep ambition to compete in the Africa Cup of Nations, with Kenya set to co-host the 2027 tournament. Yet, a return to Pirates represents an opportunity far greater than any before it," read part of the report.

Apart from McCarthy, the club could look at the celebrated Pitso Mosimane, who is currently without a club. Rhulani Mokwena is also an option as his stint at Wydad Casablanca continues to blow hot and cold.

Others include Gavin Hunt, Molefi Ntseki and Manqoba Mngqithi.

While the allure of joining the Bucs is understandably great, it is highly unlikely McCarthy will jump ship that quickly.

The 47-year-old has been hands-on since he was appointed in March. He is yet to win a game with Harambee Stars but has already shown signs of great things to come with gallant performances against Gambia and Gabon.

The former Manchester United forwards coach has also been spotted attending a myriad of local games as he continues to familiarise himself with the task at hand. He has been spotted at local Premier League games and the training sessions, and friendlies of Kenya's U20 team, the Rising Stars. The team, under the tutelage of Salim Babu, will represent Kenya at AFCON U20 in Egypt.

McCarthy has also spoken passionately about what he intends to achieve with Kenya. So while Pirates might be too good an option, it may have come at the wrong time for the former Amazulu man.

had earlier reported that Kenya was handed a raw deal in the revised draw for AFCON U20 in Egypt.

The Rising Stars will now face Morocco, Tunisia and Nigeria in a mean-looking Group B.

The draw had to be redone after Ivory Coast, the initial hosts, withdrew from the tournament.

Source: TUKO.co.ke