Yanga SC continues to restructure its squad ahead of the 2025/26 Tanzania Premier League season, with inside sources from Jangwani revealing that the historic champions are looking to add another foreign defender.
So far, Yanga has completed the signing of 12 foreign players, which is the maximum allowed under TFF regulations for the season. However, the medical condition of defender Yao Kouassi has prompted club officials to consider signing another player for the defensive line.
Yao underwent knee surgery in May 2025 and, according to medical reports, is expected to be sidelined for up to six months. Although there is hope for an earlier recovery, the Yanga management does not want to risk his health by rushing him back into action.
"We haven’t ruled him out of our long-term plans — that’s why we extended his contract. But for now, we’re looking at signing another defender who can step in while he continues his recovery," said a senior Yanga SC official.
Yanga head coach Romain Folz has reportedly made specific recommendations for a new centre-back signing, emphasizing the importance of having a quick and reliable option available.
It's worth noting that Yanga is currently without key defenders Ibrahim Bacca and Dickson Job, who are on national duty with the Taifa Stars in the CHAN tournament.
With national team players unavailable for pre-season, Yanga is left with only one natural centre-back, Bakari Nondo Mwamnyeto, and plans to use Aziz Andabwile as a makeshift centre-back.
In a related development, Yanga is in talks to part ways with DR Congo winger Jonathan Ikangalombo, who joined the club during the January 2025 mini-window. Despite returning for pre-season preparations, his spot in the team appears uncertain following the club’s acquisition of five new foreign players.
