Dar es Salaam. When Yanga set their sights on signing midfielder Jonathan Ikangalombo from AS Vita, their main focus was not on international competitions, but strengthening their squad for the domestic season.
The Jangwani-based club had initially expressed interest in the player at the start of the season but couldn’t secure the deal.
However, fortune smiled on them as they successfully completed the transfer in the January window, just days before their final CAF group stage match against MC Alger, which ended in a draw and saw them exit the competition.
Ikangalombo’s signing is a clear indication that Yanga is determined to continue their dominance in the league, aiming for a fourth consecutive title and further solidifying their record.
The major advantage Yanga gains from this acquisition is Ikangalombo’s versatility.
He can play in three different positions: left-wing, right-wing, and in the attack, areas where Yanga has struggled to find consistent performers this season, especially in the forward role where Prince Dube and Kennedy Musonda have not lived up to expectations.
The 22-year-old DR Congo international has joined Yanga on a two-year contract, and is considered one of the fastest players in the league, with a strong physique that could provide additional strength to Yanga’s attacking options.
His signing meant that Yanga had to part ways with striker Jean Baleke to meet the requirements of having 12 foreign players on the roster.
Before joining Yanga, Ikangalombo made a name for himself at AS Vita, where he demonstrated excellent speed, playmaking ability, and powerful shots.
His performances, particularly in the CAF Confederation Cup, showcased his potential to make a significant impact in the Mainland Premier League and the remaining FA Cup fixtures.
At just 22, Ikangalombo is at an ideal age for a long-term player, which is an added benefit for head coach Saed Ramovic, who is building a squad capable of clinching this season’s league title.
With Yanga currently missing key players due to injuries, including Maxi Nzengeli, this could be Ikangalombo’s perfect opportunity to break into the starting XI, provided his training performances impress the coach.
Although he is not yet a household name, Ikangalombo’s journey in football started at DC Motema Pembe, and his move to AS Vita earlier this year saw him earn more minutes, including playing every minute of their CAF Confederation Cup matches.
Despite his relative obscurity, he has earned two caps for the DR Congo national team, a country known for producing talent that often plays abroad.
The key now is to see how Ikangalombo performs when the Mainland Premier League resumes next month, after the postponement of CHAN, and whether he can deliver on the expectations surrounding his signing.
