Yanga to start new season without Mzize, Job, Pacome

Dar es Salaam. Young Africans (Yanga) have been handed an early setback ahead of the 2026/27 season after three influential players, Clement Mzize, Dickson Job and Pacome Zouzoua, were confirmed to be unavailable for the opening part of the league campaign due to injury setbacks.

The absence of the key trio is set to challenge new head coach Manqoba Mngqithi as he prepares a squad expected to compete for domestic honours while also carrying the club’s ambitions in continental competitions. Yanga will face Simba in the Community Shield match on August 12 before taking on Namungo FC on August 15 at Majaliwa Stadium in Lindi.

Mzize, Job and Pacome have all played significant roles in Yanga’s recent success, and their prolonged absence means the club will have to rely on squad depth during the crucial opening weeks of the season.

Tanzania international striker Mzize is among the players expected to miss the start of the league season after failing to recover in time from his injury. The forward has become a vital part of Yanga’s attacking options, offering pace, movement and a constant threat in the final third. His absence could force Mngqithi to rethink his attacking approach as the coach looks for a reliable goal scoring option while waiting for the striker’s return. Defender Dickson Job will also continue his recovery, with the centre back not expected back until late November or early December. Job’s injury leaves a significant void in Yanga’s defensive structure, considering his experience, physical strength and ability to organise the backline. Yanga information officer Ali Kamwe provided an update on the club’s injured players during an interview with U FM, revealing the progress made by Abubakar Khomeini, Job, Mzize and Pacome.

Kamwe said goalkeeper Khomeini has recovered by about 85 per cent from a hip problem and is now close to making his return to competitive football.

“Job and Mzize are currently undergoing light training sessions and are expected to return at the end of November or the beginning of December this year,” Kamwe said. However, Pacome’s situation remains the biggest concern for the Jangwani based club. The Ivorian attacking midfielder, who underwent surgery after suffering a serious injury, has already spent several weeks in hospital before being discharged. Kamwe revealed that Pacome is preparing to travel to Paris, France, for further specialised treatment, a move that could delay his return to action.

The absence of Pacome could have the biggest tactical impact on Yanga. The creative midfielder has been one of the team’s most influential players, providing goals, assists and attacking ideas from the middle of the park.

His ability to unlock defences and connect midfield with attack has made him a key figure in Yanga’s playing style, and his continued absence will require Mngqithi to find alternative solutions.                                                                                            The South African coach, who replaced Pedro Goncalves, favours an attacking 4-3-3 system that depends on creativity, quick transitions and strong attacking movements. Without Pacome, Mzize and Job, he may have to adjust his plans as he builds a team capable of defending Yanga’s domestic dominance.

While the club has been active in strengthening its squad ahead of the new campaign, the latest injury concerns highlight the importance of having enough quality options to maintain competitiveness throughout a demanding season.

For Yanga, the priority will be managing the recovery of their injured stars while ensuring the team remains competitive until their return.