Dar es Salaam. Simba SC have officially put an end to widespread speculation surrounding their attacking midfielder, Elie Mpanzu, after securing his services on a new two-year contract.
The move follows recent recommendations made by head coach Steve Barker as part of efforts to strengthen and maintain squad stability.
The new agreement will see Mpanzu remain at the Msimbazi-based club until December 2028, extending his previous deal which had been nearing its expiry.
For some time, the Congolese star had been heavily linked with a potential departure, raising concerns among the club’s supporters.
However, the club’s management, under investor Mohamed Dewji, stepped in decisively to ensure the player’s stay, reinforcing their commitment to building a competitive squad.
Despite the contract renewal, discussions persist regarding Mpanzu’s role within the team, largely due to increased competition in Simba’s attacking department.
The arrivals of Libasse Guaye and Anicet Alain Oura during the January 2026 transfer window have significantly reshaped the team’s attacking structure.
In recent matches, Mpanzu has often started from the bench, as the new signings have influenced the starting line-up.
Nevertheless, he has continued to demonstrate his value most notably by scoring a crucial goal in Simba’s victory over Singida Black Stars and providing assists in two consecutive matches: a 1-1 draw against Pamba Jiji and a 3-0 win over TRA.
Speaking in an exclusive interview in Singida, head coach Steve Barker emphasised that Mpanzu’s absence from the starting eleven should not be interpreted as a dip in form.
“Mpanzu is part of our squad, and every player at Simba is important. I have plans for him,” Barker stated, reaffirming his confidence in the attacker.
His remarks underline that Mpanzu remains a key figure in the coach’s long-term plans prompting swift action from the club’s leadership, led by Dewji, to secure his future before risking losing the Congolese forward, who appears to be rediscovering his best form, reminiscent of his performances under former coach Fadlu Davids.
Mpanzu becomes the second player to commit his future to Simba SC in recent weeks, following the contract extension of Yusuph Kagoma.
