Yanga hijack Simba’s bid for CS Sfaxien star Balla Conté

His standout performances had drawn attention from several clubs across Africa, including Yanga’s fierce rivals, Simba SC.

According to sources within Yanga, Simba were initially leading the race for Conté’s signature. However, Yanga stepped in and swiftly closed the deal with CS Sfaxien, reportedly taking advantage of the player’s contract which was set to expire next season.

“The club (Yanga) have leapfrogged Simba and finalized the signing of Conté,” said the source. “Despite already having players in that position, the technical bench sees his inclusion as a significant boost to the squad.

He is a true defensive midfielder but also capable of pushing forward when needed.”

Conté will join an already competitive midfield at Yanga. His primary position is defensive midfield, where he will provide a solid partnership or rotation option alongside Ugandan international Khalid Aucho, who recently extended his stay at the club with a one-year contract.

In addition to Aucho, Yanga’s midfield boasts other key players including Ivorian playmaker Stephane Aziz Ki, Mohammed Doumbia from Ivory Coast, Kenyan attacking midfielder Duke Abuya, and Tanzanian international Mudathir Yahya.

Conté’s versatility means he could also be deployed in a more advanced role if required.

Yanga’s president, Hersi Said, earlier confirmed the club’s intention to strengthen the team with quality additions in preparation for the new season, both domestically and continentally.

Speaking during a recent media briefing, Hersi emphasized that their ambition for the coming season goes beyond defending their local titles.

“Our goal is not only to retain the league title and other domestic trophies, but also to qualify for the group stage of the CAF Champions League and go further,” Hersi said.

“We are committed to assembling a team that can challenge the best in Africa.”

Yanga had an outstanding 2024/25 season, securing a remarkable domestic treble by winning the Premier League, the CRDB Federation Cup, and the Community Shield.

Beyond domestic success, the club also claimed international glory by lifting the Toyota Cup in South Africa and the Muungano Cup, bringing their total haul to five trophies for the season.

With Balla Moussa Conté now joining the squad, Yanga is clearly signaling its ambition to enhance its competitiveness on the continental stage and break new ground in African football.

However, Conté’s arrival may spark speculation about the future of some midfielders already at the club.

Reports suggest that Kenyan midfielder Duke Abuya’s position is under scrutiny, as the club continues to restructure and strengthen its squad ahead of the new campaign.

As preparations for pre-season intensify, fans will be eager to see how the new signings gel and whether Yanga can live up to their growing expectations both at home and on the continental stage.