Benni McCarthy Reveals Reasons Behind Signing Obinna Nsofor for Cape Town City

CAPE TOWN, South Africa – In a momentous move that has sent ripples of excitement throughout the South African football community, Cape Town City’s head coach, Benni McCarthy, has provided an insight into his decision to sign former Super Eagles luminary, Obinna Nsofor, who recently joined the club as a free agent following his stint with German lower division side Darmstadt 98.

Nsofor, a seasoned footballer with a distinguished international career, boasting an Africa Cup of Nations bronze medal from 2006 and an Olympic silver from Beijing 2008, was warmly welcomed into the Cape Town City ranks. His addition to the squad has sparked curiosity and enthusiasm among fans and pundits alike.

In an exclusive interview with the Cape Town City website, Benni McCarthy shed light on the rationale behind this acquisition. McCarthy, himself a former South African striker with a decorated career, emphasized the deep-rooted friendship he shares with Nsofor and their shared history within the world of football.

“I’ve known Victor from his days in the Nigerian national team when he used to be a strike partner for Obafemi Martins. Back then, obviously when he signed with Inter as an African player, everyone knows about it. It was round about that time I was in England, Spain, Portugal. It is big news for African players when they get such an opportunity,” McCarthy articulated, reflecting on their early encounters in the footballing world.

Their connection was solidified during their tenure at West Ham United, where they shared the pitch as teammates. McCarthy, a veteran on the cusp of retiring, took the young Nsofor under his wing, fostering a friendship that endured the test of time.

McCarthy continued, “He’s a very humble guy, and hopefully, he can teach the guys some stuff or learn from them as he’s been out of African football for a while.”

The decision to bring Nsofor to Cape Town City was not without its challenges, given his European background. McCarthy had to persuade his friend to consider this fresh opportunity in South Africa. “I learnt he was free and didn’t have a club. Of course, when you are in Europe, why would you come to South Africa? So I had to persuade him a little bit to get back into football and that he can always go back to Europe. And to my shock and surprise, he said, ‘Yeah, why not? What has he got to lose?’ So he came down, and that’s it because we were teammates at West Ham, and with what he’s seen and read about how the team plays nice football,” McCarthy explained.

This acquisition marks a significant moment for Cape Town City and signals a reunion of footballing talents and friends. Obinna Nsofor’s experience, both on the international stage and within the European leagues, promises to be a valuable addition to the squad. With Benni McCarthy’s passion and guidance, this friendship-turned-partnership is set to be a captivating chapter in the club’s history. Fans are eager to see how the two friends collaborate to elevate Cape Town City’s performance on the pitch.