Benni McCarthy’s agent Rob Moore has described the former AmaZulu coach’s move to Manchester United as significant.
The 44-year-old former West Ham United and Blackburn Rovers forward joined the Red Devils as their first team strikers’ coach this past weekend.
Speaking on SAfm’s Sport On programme on Monday evening, Moore said: “This is a significant move for Benni. I think it will also open doors for other South African coaches in Europe. Some people will say it’s a step down from being a head coach. But how many coaches go from the PSL to the English Premier League? This is a huge step for Benni. He’s still young. It would have been different for a guy like Pitso who’s older and probably wouldn’t be an assistant.
“When I realised that there was a gap at Man United, I saw no one was linked with the job. I got in touch with Ten Haag and offered Benni. He’s played there, scored goals, speaks four different languages and has groomed a number of players who’ve gone on to become internationals. Erik then invited him for interviews before asking him to take over a training session. After that the offer came and we signed. Benni is well respected in England.”
The former Ajax Cape Town co-owner, however, refused to reveal the exact nature of McCarthy’s contract with th Red Devils.
“The contract is a bit different than that of a player. Players can sign for five years, but for coaches it’s not the same. I wouldn’t like to divulge the details. Right now we’re just grateful for this opportunity and we must make the most of it,” he said.
