Yanga land Tshabalala in sensational transfer twist

Dar es Salaam. The long-standing speculation has finally come to an end—veteran left-back Mohamed Hussein alias Tshabalala has been officially unveiled as a new Yanga SC player, marking one of the most high-profile signings of the 2025 transfer window.

The announcement, made on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, confirms that Tshabalala has signed a two-year contract with the Jangwani Street-based giants following his departure from their fiercest rivals, Simba SC.

His move represents a significant moment in Tanzanian football, as a key figure from Simba’s golden era makes a dramatic switch to the other side of the Kariakoo Derby.

Tshabalala arrives at Yanga with an impressive résumé built over 11 years at Simba, where he joined in 2014 from Kagera Sugar.

During his tenure at Msimbazi Street, he lifted an array of domestic silverware, including four Premier League titles, three CRDB Federation Cups, five Community Shields, three Mapinduzi Cups, and a Union Cup.

His continental highlight came in the 2024/25 season when he helped guide Simba to the final of the CAF Confederation Cup.

He was also a constant presence in the team’s campaigns that saw them reach the quarterfinals of CAF competitions on six different occasions.

Between 2017 and 2024, Tshabalala served as Simba’s assistant captain before taking over as club captain, a role he held with distinction until his recent exit. Known for his leadership, consistency, and defensive prowess, he was widely regarded as one of the most reliable players in the Simba squad and a fan favorite.

Before rising to prominence, Tshabalala began his football journey with Azam FC's youth system, having been spotted in his neighborhood of Magomeni Kagera.

He later joined Kagera Sugar, where he made a name for himself before earning a move to Simba.

At Yanga, the 29-year-old is expected to bring experience and stability to the left side of defense.

He enters a competitive unit where the left-back position was primarily shared by Chadrack Boka and Clement Kibabage last season.

The arrival of Tshabalala is expected to raise the level of competition, providing the coaching staff with quality options.

In addition to Boka and Kibabage, Yanga also boasts the services of Kibwana Shomari and Israel Mwenda, both of whom can operate on the left flank.

Tshabalala becomes Yanga’s eighth acquisition this window, joining new signings Offen Chikola, Abdulnassir Casemiro, Andy Boyeli, Lassine Kouma, Moussa Balla Conte, Celestin Ecua, and Abubakar Ninju.

With his wealth of experience and leadership qualities, Tshabalala is poised to play a pivotal role as Yanga gears up for a demanding season both at home and in African competitions.