Exclusive: Young Africans closing in on a new coach

Tanzania Mainland Premier League champions Young Africans are closing in on hiring the services of a new coach following the exit of Miloud Hamdi.

Hamdi, who joined the Citizens at the halfway stage from Singida Black Stars, helped the team to retain the Premier League crown for the fourth consecutive season and clinch the Federation Cup. He however, left after the double success to sign for Egyptian side Ismaily.

A source within the club has disclosed to Pan-Africa Football that talks are almost complete to bring in Hamdi’s replacement before they head for pre-season training ahead of the new campaign.

“We have talked to several coaches, we have been cutting down the numbers, and we now have the man to take us forward and he will be unveiled in due course,” said the source, who did not want to be named.

However, Pan-Africa Football can confirm that former Wydad AC and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena is among the front runners to take over at Jangwani. Mokwena is a free agent following his decision to leave the Moroccan outfit, and he is a close friend to the club’s president Eng. Hersi Said.

Another coach, who is being tipped to take over is Julien Chevalier, currently with Ivorian outfit ASEC Mimosas.  When Pan-Africa Football asked the source to give names of the possible targets, he replied: “No, I can’t give you any of the names for now, but know that very soon we will unveil a new foreign coach.”

Yanga will represent Tanzania in CAF Champions League by virtue of winning the league.