South African national team legend and former star striker Benni McCarthy has faced criticism for his weight gain.
The legendary footballer, who played for top clubs like Porto, Celta Vigo, Orlando Pirates, and West Ham United, ended his playing career in 2013.
After retiring, he returned to football as an assistant coach for the Belgian team St. Truiden. He later became the head coach of Cape Town City and then AmaZulu FC. Most recently, he served as the forwards coach for Manchester United.
During his transition from player to coach, McCarthy experienced weight gain, which is common when elite athletes shift into tactical roles.
Even during his playing days, he had to part ways with West Ham due to weight-related issues. However, upon his return to Orlando Pirates, he managed to regain his fitness.
Throughout his playing career, Benni McCarthy won numerous trophies. He made history by becoming the first and only South African to win the Champions League with Porto.
He also won two Portuguese league titles, one Dutch league title, and one South African league title.
McCarthy contributed 31 goals in 80 appearances for the South African national team, making him the highest-scoring player in the nation’s history.
Despite these remarkable achievements, he has not been able to escape criticism.