SIMBA Sports Club’s dependable left-back and skipper, Mohammed Hussein, famously known as Tshabalala, is on the verge of signing a new contract with the club.

According to credible reports from inside the Msimbazi Street-based side, negotiations are currently underway to secure his services for an additional two years as the club prepares for the new season.

Simba officials have confirmed that extending Hussein’s stay is a priority and talks are progressing positively. 

The left-back (pictured), who has been a crucial figure in the club’s defensive line for several seasons, is expected to remain a key player under the new technical regime led by South African coach Fadlu Davids.

An insider from the club revealed: “The discussions with Tshabalala are ongoing and there’s a strong possibility he will sign a two-year extension. The management sees him as an important asset, and his performance over the years speaks volumes.”

Hussein’s reliability, experience, and consistent form have endeared him to Simba fans, many of whom have been vocal on social media demanding that the club retain him. His defensive contributions have often been vital, especially in high-stakes matches, making him one of the most trusted figures in the squad.

However, the same cannot be said about Congolese midfielder Fabrice Ngoma, whose future at Simba remains in the balance. 

While Hussein’s talks are progressing well, Ngoma’s case is still under technical review, with the final decision expected to hinge on the head coach’s assessment report.

Speaking on the matter, one of the club’s officials stated, “Ngoma’s future is still being deliberated. It’s not an easy decision. The final call will be made once we receive the full technical report from coach Fadlu Davids.”

Ngoma’s journey this past season has been a rollercoaster. He began the campaign on a low note, drawing criticism from a section of the club’s supporters who felt he was underperforming. At some point, the pressure mounted with fans demanding that the club part ways with him. 

However, the central midfielder turned his fortunes around in the latter half of the season, delivering strong performances that proved vital to Simba’s campaign.

His resurgence was particularly evident in continental action, where he played a key role in helping Simba reach the CAF Confederation Cup final. Despite the club falling short against Morocco’s RS Berkane, losing 3-1 on aggregate, Ngoma’s improved form did not go unnoticed.

Commenting on the overall contract situation, Simba’s Media and Communication Manager Ahmed Ally explained that the decision regarding players whose contracts have expired will solely depend on the technical bench.

“At the moment, I cannot provide definitive information because the issue is being handled by the technical staff led by coach Fadlu Davids,” said Ally. “Once he submits his recommendations, those players he wants to keep will remain with the team.”

Ally’s remarks reflect the club’s new strategy of relying on the coach’s technical report before making contract decisions. This approach ensures that every player retained aligns with the head coach’s tactical plans and expectations.

Hussein’s likely extension and the ongoing review of Ngoma’s contract indicate that Simba is taking a careful and strategic approach in shaping their squad for the upcoming season. 

With high expectations domestically and in continental competitions, the club is keen on assembling a squad that can meet its ambitions.

Simba’s focus on continuity and stability, especially in their defensive setup, could be crucial in their quest to reclaim domestic supremacy and perform better in CAF competitions. The retention of experienced players like Hussein sends a strong message about the club’s intent to remain competitive.