Dar es Salaam. Simba SC head coach Fadlu Davids has opened up on the state of his squad, the ongoing preseason camp in Egypt, recruitment challenges, and his aspirations for the upcoming domestic and continental campaigns.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, the South African tactician laid out a clear and calculated plan one he believes will rebuild Simba into a faster, smarter, and more competitive side.
Egypt Camp: Laying the Foundations
Davids revealed that his squad is currently divided into two groups those who joined last week and those who arrived yesterday.
This staggered arrival has created differences in fitness levels, but the ultimate goal is to bring everyone to the same tactical and physical standard.
Early arrivals have already undergone strength work and fitness tests, while new players are being gradually introduced to the program to avoid overload.
Replacing Key Departures
The coach acknowledged the impact of losing influential figures like Che Malone, Fabrice Ngoma, and Mohamed Hussein, but insists the club has acted decisively.
“You can’t replace Fabrice with another Fabrice, but you can find someone with similar attributes,” he said, praising recruitment head Mels Daalder for identifying signings that match Simba’s tactical needs.
Building a Modern Simba
Davids stressed that the camp is not just about fitness it’s about constructing a high-speed, high-press, tactically disciplined team.
Signings such as Alassane Kante and Semfuko were chosen for their technical and tactical fit, not just their reputation.
“We need players who can control space, play short and long passes, and think the game. That’s what we’re building here in Egypt,” he explained.
New Strikers Making an Impression
Jonathan Sowah, the prolific forward signed from Singida BS, has already caught the eye in training.
Davids described him as “a predator in front of goal, hungry, strong, and relentless.”
Morris Abraham, another newcomer, was praised for his high football IQ and understanding of Simba’s system after training with the squad for two months.
Bajaber’s Modern Midfield Profile
On Mohamed Bajaber, the Kenyan midfielder, Davids highlighted his professionalism and European-style discipline.
Despite recovering from a minor injury, Bajaber is showing encouraging signs and is expected to be a key figure in the season ahead.
Discipline, Data, and Detail
The coach emphasised that every decision in camp is data-driven, measuring speed, positional transitions, and tactical understanding.
“We’re building a team scientifically not just to run, but to play smart football,” he said.
Awaiting the CHAN Stars
Players currently representing Tanzania at CHAN are yet to join camp, but Davids praised their performances and is confident they will return ready to contribute.
“They are the engine of Simba, and they know our foundations and principles,” he affirmed.
Recruitment Still in Motion
Davids confirmed that more signings are on the way, both local and international.
“We have big names coming in. We don’t rush we work with strategy,” he concluded, underlining Simba’s commitment to calculated, long-term squad building.
