The experienced midfielder, who joined Yanga on January 1, 2022 from Azam FC, has been a key figure during one of the club’s most dominant eras in recent history
Dar es Salaam. After three successful seasons with Mainland Tanzania champions Young Africans (Yanga), defensive midfielder Salum “Sure Boy” Abubakar has opted to part ways with the Jangwani Street giants at the end of the current campaign.
The experienced midfielder, who joined Yanga on January 1, 2022 from Azam FC, has been a key figure during one of the club’s most dominant eras in recent history.
During his time at the club, Sure Boy played an instrumental role as Yanga secured four consecutive Mainland Tanzania Premier League titles from 2022 to 2025.
In addition to league dominance, Yanga also enjoyed remarkable success in domestic cup competitions, lifting the Federation Cup in each of the past four seasons, completing an impressive run of back-to-back triumphs between 2022 and 2025.
On the continental stage, Sure Boy featured in 17 matches, including 11 appearances in the CAF Confederation Cup and six in the CAF Champions League, contributing to the club’s growing presence in African competitions. Despite his achievements and experience, the midfielder’s role in the team appears to have diminished this season.
Records indicate that he has featured in fewer matches compared to previous campaigns, a situation that sources say has influenced his decision to seek a move away from the club.
A senior member of Yanga’s executive committee confirmed to The Citizen that the player has formally submitted a letter requesting to be released.
“Sure Boy has written to the club leadership asking to leave. We have received his request and will sit down to discuss the matter,” said the source.
The official noted that while the midfielder has expressed his desire to move on, his contract with the club is still valid.
According to club records, Sure Boy still has one year remaining on his current deal, which is set to expire at the end of next season.
“He is still our player and an important member of the team. We respect him and what he has contributed. We will meet with him and provide an official position after those discussions,” the source added.
Sure Boy’s potential departure would mark the end of a successful chapter for both the player and the club, as Yanga continues to rebuild and strengthen its squad ahead of future domestic and continental challenges.
His exit, if finalised, is expected to attract interest from several clubs given his experience, leadership and track record of success in Tanzanian and African football.
