With ten new players, Simba still eyeing more signings

By Seth Mapoli , The Guardian
Published at 10:35 AM Jul 08 2024
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Photo: Courtesy of Simba
Simba’s information and communication manager, Ahmed Ally

SIMBA are gearing up for the upcoming 2024/2025 season by making significant strides in their player registration process. So far, they have successfully signed ten new players, including Lameck Lawi, Jean Charles Ahoua, Abdulazak Hamza, Steven Mukwala, Joshua Mutale, Augustine Okejepha, Debora Fernandez, Omary Omary, Valentin Nouma, and Valentino Mashaka.

However, the club’s information and communication manager, Ahmed Ally, has emphasized that the registration process is still ongoing and more signings, both local and international, are expected. 

“We have not yet completed the registration this season. We are counting on making other registrations for local and foreign players,” said Ally.

This transfer window has seen Simba bolster their squad across various departments, but fans are eagerly awaiting further reinforcements, particularly in the defense and attack lines. 

Reliable sources indicate that Simba are set to bring in two foreign stars to strengthen these areas.

One of the anticipated new signings is central defender Chamoue Karoboue from Ivory Coast’s RC Abidjan. The 23-year-old defender is said to have already arrived in Dar es Salaam to finalize the paperwork necessary to join Simba. 

Additionally, discussions are underway to secure DR Congo striker Ellie Mpanzu, who is currently under contract with AS Vita for another year. Negotiations with Mpanzu have been ongoing, and if successful, he will be a key addition to Simba’s attacking lineup.

Ally noted that while the current attack lineup includes Steven Mukwala, Valentino Mashaka, and Freddy Michael, the potential addition of Mpanzu could significantly enhance their offensive capabilities. 

Simba are said to have already reached a personal agreement with Mpanzu, but the final hurdle remains AS Vita’s reluctance to release the player.

The Msimbazi Street-based side has also secured the services of Fadlu Davids as their new head coach on a two-year contract. The 43-year-old South African brings a wealth of experience, having served as the assistant coach for Raja Club Athletic in Morocco before joining Simba. 

Fadlu, known for his preference for the 4-2-3-1 formation, replaces Abdelhak Benchikha, who departed during the 2023/2024 season.

Fadlu’s extensive knowledge of African football, gained from coaching stints at Maritzburg United and Orlando Pirates in South Africa, as well as his tenure as an assistant coach at Lokomotiv Moscow in Russia, is expected to be invaluable for Simba. 

The club’s leadership is confident that Fadlu’s expertise will help them achieve their ambitious goals for the 2024/2025 season.

As part of their pre-season preparations, Simba will be heading to Egypt. The team will be competing in the Premier League, CAF Confederation Cup, and Federation Cup. 

Additionally, they will participate in the Community Shield tournament, with the official date for Simba Day set for August 3rd. 

Simba’s pre-season in Egypt will be crucial for team building and ensuring that the new signings integrate seamlessly into the squad.

With a strategic approach to signings and the addition of a highly regarded head coach, Simba are positioning themself for a competitive and successful 2024/2025 season. The club's commitment to strengthening their squad and their comprehensive pre-season plans highlight their determination to excel in domestic and continental competitions.

As the registration window remains open, fans can expect further announcements and signings that will shape the final squad for the new season. Simba’s proactive measures and meticulous planning underscore their ambition to dominate in the upcoming season and beyond.