Yanga President Injinia Hersi Said is entering one of the most important periods of his leadership, with the major transfer window set to open in July likely to determine how the club will shape its squad for the upcoming season.
For several seasons, Yanga have been the strongest team in Tanzania, achieving success both domestically and in continental competitions. The quality of the squad, strong internal competition, and effective recruitment have all played a key role in those achievements.
However, there are growing signs that the squad’s strength has started to decline. Unlike previous seasons where Yanga had game-changing players even from the bench, this season the team appears to lack depth in some key areas.
One of the main reasons has been the failure to make impactful signings in the last two transfer windows. A number of players brought in were unable to meet the club’s competitive standards, leading to several early departures.
Names such as Ecua Celestin, Moussa Balla Conte, Mohamed Doumbia, and Andy Boyeli arrived with high expectations, but things did not go as planned. Most of them failed to secure regular first-team places and left the club after just six months.
During the mid-season window, Yanga strengthened their squad with players such as Allan Okello, Buba Jammeh, Mohamed Damaro, and Depu. Among them, Okello has adapted quickly and become an important figure in the team.
Damaro has been used depending on match requirements, while Depu started strongly before injuries disrupted his momentum and reduced his impact.
It is now clear that Yanga need significant improvements if they are to maintain their dominance in Tanzanian football and perform better in continental competitions. The level of competition in the league is increasing, with other clubs investing heavily in their squads.
The upcoming transfer window requires more than experimental signings. Yanga need ready-made players capable of immediately improving the starting lineup.
Hersi and his leadership team face a major responsibility to ensure past recruitment mistakes are not repeated. Fans are now expecting high-quality signings that align with the club’s ambitions.
If the right improvements are not made, next season could prove more challenging for Yanga both domestically and internationally.
