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4 months ago
34 As INEOS work on granting Erik ten Hag his desired coaching staff additions in the form of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake, the door has opened for his previous entourage to bid farewell.
Reports had suggested only a fortnight ago that, after receiving confirmation that he’d be staying at Old Trafford long-term, Ten Hag was pushing for striker coach Benni McCarthy to be awarded a contract extension ready for the 2024/2025 campaign.
His terms are set to expire at the end of June, and, as per a breaking update from The Athletic this evening, McCarthy will be leaving upon the culmination of his deal.
The 46-year-old has played an integral role behind the scenes at Carrington since he was appointed shortly after Ten Hag’s tenure began.
Having previously embarked on a managerial career of his own, taking charge of Cape Town City and AmaZulu in the past, McCarthy is keen to return to the dugout himself and tackle a new venture.
McCarthy’s exit will hit the dressing room hard
The South African was particularly lauded for his work with Marcus Rashford last term after he oversaw a resurgent, career-best campaign, in which he netted 30 goals in all competitions and was subsequently named the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year.
In November 2023, the England international hailed the direct influence the coach had on his upturn in form, saying: “He’s definitely helped me a lot. To have attack-minded coaches is good for us. He’s always there speaking to us about these things.”
Snippets from training sessions have frequently showcased how well-liked the ex-frontman is among the squad, but that popularity has also transferred to the fans as well.
McCarthy celebrates May’s FA Cup victory with the playersAfter Rashford scored a brace in a 3-0 home win over Leicester City last February, the Old Trafford faithful could be heard chanting McCarthy’s name – as confirmed by MailSport.
🗣 “Thanks for what you’re doing with this team.”
Benni McCarthy: “Thank you, that’s the manager, it’s the manager.”
🗣: “It’s you as well.”
Benni McCarthy: “ I’ve got him [Rashford] in the right place.” 🫡#MUFC pic.twitter.com/NoUfboK06M
— United Zone (@ManUnitedZone_) February 22, 2023

