Former Simba coaches Patrick Aussems and Didier Gomes Da Rosa are among those who have reportedly applied to replace Fadlu Davids, who recently departed to join Raja Casablanca.
According to sources within Simba, several high-profile names have submitted their applications, with Aussems and Gomes standing out due to the memories and records they left behind during their stints with the Msimbazi giants.
Aussems joined Simba in 2018 after the club had clinched the Premier League title in the 2017/18 season. At the time, Simba was aiming to make an impact in continental competitions, and the Belgian coach was seen as the right fit. In his first season, he led Simba to the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League before being eliminated by TP Mazembe with a 4-1 aggregate. He also guided the team to retain the league title in 2018/19. However, his tenure ended in November 2019 after a string of poor results. He later returned to Tanzania last season to coach Singida BS.
Gomes, on the other hand, was appointed in January 2021 after parting ways with Al-Merrikh of Sudan. His mandate was clear: reach the quarterfinals of the Champions League and maintain domestic dominance. Gomes made history by collecting 13 points in the CAF Champions League group stage, a record never achieved by any Tanzanian club. He also delivered Simba’s first-ever away win in the group stage, defeating AS Vita of DR Congo 1-0 in Kinshasa.
In 37 matches in charge, Gomes won 27, drew five, and lost five, while securing two domestic titles. However, he resigned on October 26, 2021, after Simba’s shock elimination by Jwaneng Galaxy of Botswana on the away goals rule — despite winning 2-0 away, they lost 3-1 at home. Gomes has been unattached since parting ways with Al-Khor SC of Qatar a few weeks ago, making him a convenient option for Simba if they want a coach with quick experience in African football.
“Yes, Gomes has officially applied. The leaders are conducting a thorough assessment because they want a coach who understands the Tanzanian environment and also has a track record of competing internationally. That’s why the names of Aussems and Gomes are being strongly considered,” a Simba insider revealed.
Alongside Gomes and Aussems, another name linked with the job is Belgian coach Luc Eymael, who previously worked with Yanga for a short spell before leaving under controversial circumstances.
Fadlu Davids left Simba on September 22 after 444 days in charge. He led the team to the CAF Confederation Cup final, overseeing 53 matches with 38 wins, seven draws, and eight losses, scoring 101 goals and conceding 30.
