Simba urge fans to embrace change after Chama’s departure

By Nassir Nchimbi , The Guardian
Published at 06:00 AM Jul 03 2024
Simba SC Fans
Photo: Courtesy of Simba
Simba SC Fans

This comes after rivals Young Africans introduced Chama as their newest player on Monday after his contract with Simba expired on June 30. Chama has been one of the Msimbazi Street-based side's best signings ever in his two spells with the club.

Young Africans are reportedly to have offered Chama US$150,000 in sign-on fees and a salary of US$13,000 monthly in a one-year deal with an option to extend.

The defending champions are expected to form a strong attacking partnership with Pacome Zouzoua, Stephanie Aziz Ki and Maxi Nzengeli in the 2024/2025 campaign season.

Following his departure, Ally said the club fans and members need to respect the club’s leadership decision in an attempt to create a new team for the foreseeable future.

"The club's leadership has emphasized that recent decisions prioritize Simba's long-term success. While acknowledging the departure of Chama, fans and members are encouraged to rally behind the team as it builds a new chapter. These changes ensure a mutually beneficial outcome for all parties involved.

"Simba fans they must remember the club is bigger than any one player. Even though Chama is gone, Simba will continue to be a force to reckon with for years to come. Great players will always come and go, but Simba remain. Let's focus on exciting upcoming events like Simba Day on August 3, where we'll celebrate and see a new team take the field," he said.

Simba are still finalizing their roster. According to Ally, they are still in talks with some players who have existing contracts to discuss their departure from the team.

"Pa Omar Jobe is still our player while the club is finalizing the departure of other players. Contract negotiations are underway with some players to terminate their current deals. An announcement regarding these departing players will be made once the process is complete. The club is now focusing on revealing new players." said Ally.

Chama, though his exit wasn't ideal, appears to believe it's the right time to move on. After the initial buzz dies down, his contributions to Simba will likely be remembered fondly, potentially earning him legendary status at the club.

While at Simba, Chama won the Premier League title three times, the Federation Cup two times, and the Community Shield four times. He also won the Player of the Year award for the 2019/20 season.

He also guided Simba to three CAF Champions League quarter-final appearances and will be forever remembered for scoring late crucial goals against Nkana Red Devils and AS Vita that sent Simba to the group stage and quarter-final of the CAF Champions League in the 2018/19 season.

Last season, Chama scored seven goals in the Premier League and created six goals for his teammates. In the Champions League and African Football, he had a total of six goal involvements, so Chama was a key player at times for both Robertinho and Abelhak Benchikha.

During his two stings at the club, Chama played 179 games and scored 42 goals, boasting 60 assists in the process.

His new side, Young Africans wouldn't just benefit from Chama's skills on the field, but also from his star power. He would boost their marketing, merchandise sales, and overall image. In the Tanzanian Premier League, Chama is a rare talent who shines both on and off the pitch.