New Yanga head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has spoken for the first time about what convinced him to join the Tanzanian champions, describing the opportunity as one he simply could not turn down.
Mngqithi arrives at Yanga after leaving Golden Arrows at the end of the 2025/26 season, having guided the South African club to a sixth-place finish in the Betway Premiership.
The experienced coach revealed that Yanga had been interested in appointing him for some time, but he felt this was finally the right moment to accept the challenge.
"For me, this is an opportunity that any coach would embrace with both hands to see how far it can take them. I'm very happy to be here," Mngqithi said.
He added that discussions with Yanga had started some time ago, but this time the circumstances were more favorable because he was no longer under contract with another club.
"They have been pursuing me for a long time. This time it was easier because I wasn't tied to any club. I felt it was the right moment to take on this new challenge."
According to Mngqithi, one of the main reasons he accepted the offer was Yanga's stature as a club, which he believes has everything needed to compete for major trophies both domestically and on the continental stage.
"Yanga is a club that has everything required to compete at the highest level. But what impressed me most were the people at the club. I met people with great character, and that made it easy for me to accept the opportunity."
Excited for the Kariakoo Derby
In addition to discussing his move to Yanga, Mngqithi expressed his excitement about the prospect of facing fellow South African coach Steve Barker, who is now in charge of Simba SC.
The Kariakoo Derby is expected to be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season, with the two South African coaches set to go head-to-head for the first time in Tanzanian football.
"It's very exciting. I understand why so many fans are looking forward to seeing two South African coaches face each other in the Kariakoo Derby," Mngqithi said.
Mngqithi's arrival marks the beginning of a new era at Yanga, with supporters hoping he will help the club maintain its dominance in Tanzanian football while achieving greater success in continental competitions.
He takes charge with extensive experience in African football, raising expectations that he can guide Yanga to even greater achievements in the 2026/27 season.
