After rediscovering his form under head coach Steve Barker, attacking midfielder Neo Maema has turned things around and is now in a strong position to earn a new contract at Simba SC.
Maema joined Simba on loan in July 2025 from Mamelodi Sundowns, with his deal set to expire at the end of the current season.
He struggled initially to make an impact at the club, which led to mounting pressure over his future, with Simba reportedly close to terminating his loan during the mid-season transfer window.
However, Barker intervened and halted the club’s plans to release the South African international, who captained his national side at the CHAN 2024 tournament.
The coach has since helped rebuild Maema’s confidence while also entrusting him with leadership responsibilities within the squad, and the results are now evident.
Reports indicate that Simba are preparing to open contract talks to extend his stay, similar to defender Rushine de Reuck, who has already signed a one-year extension that will keep him at the club until 2027.
