THE transfer window for Young Africans Sports Club, famously known as Yanga, has been less about a spending frenzy and more about a methodical, intelligent approach to building a formidable squad.

 As the reigning champions of Tanzania, Young Africans have focused on a strategic blend of recruiting new talent and, more importantly, securing the futures of its most influential players. The moves made so far ahead of the 2025/26 campaign suggest a club not just aiming to win, but to build a lasting dynasty.

The new signings have been carefully selected to fill specific needs. The first major announcement of August was the arrival of Ecua Elastin (pictured) on August 1st. The Ivorian winger, who had a stellar 2024/25 season with Zoman FC, tallying 15 goals and 12 assists, is a statement of intent.  

His two-year deal signals Young Africans’ ambition to bolster their attacking prowess with a player known for his goal-scoring ability and creative flair. 

Preceding Elastin's unveiling was the announcement of Andy Bobwa Boyeli on July 31st. The 24-year-old forward, who spent the previous season at Sekhukhune United in South Africa, brings a dynamic presence to the attacking lineup.  

He represents the final piece of the July transfer puzzle, adding depth and competition to the front line as Young Africans seek to maintain their dominance. 

The most significant change, however, has occurred behind the scenes. Young Africans have restructured their technical bench with the appointment of new head coach Romain Folz on July 23rd. 

Folz, who takes over from Miloud Hamdi, is tasked with not only defending domestic titles but also making a deeper impact in continental competitions.  

His arrival is part of a broader shift, as he is joined by new assistant coach Manu and technical director Paul Matthews, both announced on July 29th. 

In terms of player recruitment, Young Africans have been surgical. They have brought in Lassine Kouma from Stade Malien to fill the void left by Khalid Aucho in midfield.  

Kouma is expected to provide stability and a strong defensive presence. The club also secured the signature of Moussa Balla Conte, a Guinean defensive midfielder from CS Sfaxien, on a three-year contract on July 18th.  

These international additions reflect a focused effort to strengthen the spine of the team. 

The club has also shown a keen eye for local talent. They have signed attacking midfielder Offen Chikola from Tabora United, who scored eight of his team's 28 goals last season, on a two-year deal. This move not only adds depth but also rewards a player who had an impressive individual campaign.  

Zanzibari midfielder Abdulnassir ‘Casemiro’ Mohamed and defender Abubakar Nizar ‘Ninju’Othuman, were also brought on board. Edmund John arrived from Singida Black Stars.  

Their challenge will be to fight for a starting spot in an already strong squad, highlighting the high level of competition within the team. 

Perhaps the most telling aspect of Young Africans’ transfer strategy is the retention of their star players. The club has worked diligently to lock down key members of its championship-winning squad, ensuring continuity and stability. 

 Pacome Zouzoua, the talented midfielder who finished the previous season with 12 goals and 10 assists, extended his contract for two years on July 24th. His decision to stay is a massive boost, as he is considered one of the team's most vital playmakers. 

The contract extensions continued with Maxi Nzengeli, who re-signed on July 28th for another two years. Nzengeli, the scorer of Young Africans’ first goal in the 2024/25 season, remains a crucial part of the team's attack. 

 Other core players who have extended their stays include defensive midfielder Mudathir Yahya, midfielder Duke Abuya, full-back Israel Mwenda, and attacking midfielder Dennis Nkane, all signing new two-year deals. 

 Even players who had limited playing time, such as Aziz Andambwile, have been given new contracts, demonstrating the club's commitment to squad depth and internal stability.

 As the 2025/26 season approaches, Young Africans look well-prepared. The strategic blend of new talent, a revamped technical bench, and the retention of its core squad shows a club that is not resting on its laurels.