Yanga SC have received a boost to their defence after reaching an agreement with right-back Israel Mwenda, who is expected to return to the squad following an extended absence caused by a dispute with the club.
Mwenda’s return comes at a time when Yanga have relied heavily on Yao Kouassi at right-back, while the demands of a competitive season have increased the team’s need for more options in that position.
On Monday, Yanga’s Communications and Information Manager, Ali Kamwe, confirmed that the club had reached an agreement with the player, opening a new chapter after a prolonged period of tension.
The dispute between Mwenda and Yanga reached a significant point when the Tanzania Football Federation’s (TFF) Players’ Status Committee issued a ruling requiring the player to return to his duties and comply with the terms of his contract.
That ruling laid the groundwork for restoring the working relationship between the two parties, while the agreement now gives Mwenda an opportunity to restart his journey with the Wananchi squad.
For Yanga, the defender’s return means more than resolving a contractual dispute. It presents an opportunity to increase competition within the squad and give head coach Manqoba Mngqithi another option in a position where the team has relied heavily on one player.
Yao Gets Support After Carrying a Heavy Workload
During Mwenda’s absence from the squad, Yao Kouassi has shouldered much of the responsibility for protecting the right side of Yanga’s defence.
The defender has featured in many matches, while Kazimoto, a youngster promoted from Yanga’s under-20 team, has been given opportunities to provide cover when needed.
However, Mwenda’s return could change the situation by increasing competition for the position and giving Mngqithi greater flexibility to make changes based on the opposition, the style of play and the squad’s needs.
For Yao, Mwenda’s availability could provide some relief during a demanding fixture schedule, allowing the coach to distribute responsibilities and reduce the team’s reliance on a single player in that position.
Kibwana Shomari Still Working to Regain Full Fitness
While Mwenda is expected to provide more options on the right, Kibwana Shomari’s condition also remains part of the broader picture surrounding Yanga’s defence.
Shomari has been working to regain full fitness after spending several weeks out with an injury.
This season, Kibwana played only a few minutes in a league match against Geita Gold.
