It is only a matter of time before Cameroonian striker Lionel Ateba bids farewell to Simba after spending just one season with the Msimbazi Reds.
Ateba joined Simba from USM Alger of Algeria as a replacement for Fredy Koublain in the attack. In his single season, Ateba posted decent numbers, scoring 13 goals in the NBC Tanzania Premier League and adding 2 goals in the CAF Confederation Cup.
He started the season strongly, appearing to be Simba’s main weapon in front of goal. However, as the season progressed, his playing time decreased under coach Fadlu Davids, who began favoring Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala.
The competition within Simba’s squad has grown even fiercer following the signing of prolific Ghanaian striker Jonathan Sowah from Singida BS.
Sowah was in sensational form last season, scoring 13 goals in just 14 matches after joining during the mid-season transfer window. His arrival has clearly posed a major challenge to Ateba’s role in the team.
Reports indicate that Ateba is now on his way to Morocco, where he is expected to join one of the top-flight clubs and begin a new chapter in his football career.
Ateba’s departure opens a new chapter for Simba, which will now rely heavily on Sowah, Mukwala, and Selemani Mwalimu, who is joining the club from Wydad Casablanca.
