South African coach Fadlu Davids, 45, has been appointed head coach of Tanzanian football giants Young Africans SC, returning to a country where he previously made his mark in club football.
Davids recently coached the club’s rivals, Simba SC, in Dar es Salaam, famously leading them to the CAF Confederation Cup final. He now takes over at Young Africans following the departure of compatriot Manqoba Mngqithi, who left the position after a short spell in charge.
Five-Point Gap in Tanzanian Premier League
Davids inherits a team competing for the Tanzanian Premier League title. Young Africans are currently second in the standings, five points behind Simba SC, who are coached by Steve Barker.
The former Orlando Pirates co-coach will be expected to reduce the deficit and help Young Africans maintain their domestic dominance.
His appointment comes with responsibilities on both domestic and continental fronts, as the club also prepares for the CAF Champions League group stage.
Backroom Staff Join New Coach in Tanzania
Davids has arrived in Tanzania with members of his trusted technical team. His backroom staff includes assistant coaches Darian Wilken and Mueez Kajee.
The immediate priority for the new coaching team will be preparing the squad for its upcoming domestic matches and the Champions League group-stage campaign.
Young Africans Officially Welcome Davids
Young Africans confirmed the appointment in a statement published on social media, welcoming the South African to the club.
“Karibu Young Africans SC, Fadlu Davids. The most decorated and successful football club in Tanzania welcomes you to the family. We are thrilled to enter this new chapter under your technical leadership as we collectively strive to maintain our domestic dominance and conquer the continental stage. Daima Mbele, Nyuma Mwiko.”
Davids Describes Tanzania as His Second Home
Davids expressed his excitement about returning to Tanzania, describing the country as a place he regards as his second home.
The South African coach also indicated that the timing of the appointment was right after previous approaches from Young Africans’ leadership.
He now faces the task of delivering trophies for the club in the Tanzanian Premier League and CAF Champions League.
Young Africans will be looking to close the five-point gap separating them from Simba SC while competing for success in the continental competition.
