Pan Macmillan South Africa is proud to announce the upcoming publication of Benni, the authorised biography of South African football icon Benni McCarthy. Co-authored with respected football writer Mark Gleeson, this highly anticipated story is scheduled for release in February 2026.

As the only South African footballer to have won the UEFA Champions League and the all-time top scorer for Bafana Bafana, McCarthy’s career is unparalleled in the history of South African football. Benni tells the full, unvarnished story of his rise from the gang-ravaged streets of Hanover Park on the Cape Flats to the biggest stadiums in the world.

"We are incredibly proud to announce the publication of Benni McCarthy’s authorised biography, written by Mark Gleeson," says Terry Morris, MD of Pan Macmillan South Africa. "Benni’s journey is one of the inspiring South African success stories. This candid and honest book will resonate deeply with readers, not only because of his exceptional sporting success, but because of the grit and determination that define Benni’s character."

The book details the formidable obstacles Benni overcame, including defying neighbourhood gang bosses and navigating a career often marked by controversy. It offers a fresh perspective on his "love-hate relationship with Bafana Bafana" and his transition into a successful coaching career.

The biography features a foreword by José Mourinho, the manager who brought Benni to FC Porto and with whom he won the Champions League. In the foreword, Mourinho praises McCarthy, stating, "Benni had everything that a coach loves in a player."

Benni will be in South Africa in early 2026 to promote the book. He shares his excitement about telling his story on his own terms, saying:

"Growing up in Hanover Park, you learn to be tough, and you learn to fight for your dreams. People have had a lot to say about me throughout my career; this is my story from my own perspective. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, and I'm looking forward to sharing this book with the world."

Benni promises to be a must-read sporting biography in 2026, offering an intimate look at the man behind the goals and the headlines.

'Benni' is published by Pan Macmillan South Africa