Yanga SC management is conducting a highly secretive process to search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Pedro Gonçalves last month.
The club’s objective is to appoint a new coach before the end of the current season so that he can have enough time to assess the squad and provide recommendations on the type of reinforcements needed.
Yanga want to avoid repeating last season’s mistakes, when after parting ways with Miloud Hamdi, the club took a long time to appoint Romain Folz, who ultimately struggled under pressure and was dismissed after only two league matches.
So far, there are many rumours surrounding the next Yanga coach, but the reality is that the process is being handled with strict confidentiality. However, it is clear that this time Yanga will not take a “trial and error” approach in selecting a coach.
One of the key requirements is that the incoming coach must have extensive experience in African football and a proven track record in CAF competitions with the teams he has managed.
Former Yanga coach Nasreddine Nabi is among the names being mentioned, alongside former Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane.
Mosimane has maintained a close relationship with Yanga president Engineer Hersi Said, having visited Tanzania late last year to launch the Yanga Soccer School project.
He also previously served as a guest of honour during Wiki ya Mwananchi, an event that impressed him and has since kept him close to Yanga leadership.
Mosimane has taken a break from club coaching to focus on talent development, although reports suggest he is open to returning to top-level club management.
Another name on the list is former Yanga coach Miguel Gamondi, who is currently the head coach of the Tanzania national team, Taifa Stars, making it difficult for Yanga to secure his services at this time.
Other names mentioned include Miloud Hamdi, who previously led Yanga to the league title and CRDB Cup, as well as former Simba coaches Steve van den Broeck and Fadlu Davids.
ASEC Mimosas coach Julien Chevalier is also reportedly on the shortlist. Yanga previously attempted to sign him last season without success before eventually appointing Folz.
Meanwhile, current coaching staff Abdilhamid Moalin and Patrick Mabedi could be given full responsibility if they succeed in helping the club achieve its targets of defending the league and CRDB Cup titles.
Yanga are expected to announce a new head coach after the season ends, with the incoming manager set to begin duties during pre-season.
