SIMBA SC fans were last weekend left stunned by the news of the club’s head coach Abdelhak Benchikha’s departure.

The Algerian tactician, who joined the club in November 2023, had only been at the helm for a few months.

While initial speculation swirled, Benchikha has shed light on the reason behind his sudden exit – a pressing family issue.

In a heartfelt address before leaving Tanzania, Benchikha revealed the true reason for terminating his contract- a health concern plaguing his wife.

Despite a strong desire to continue his work with Simba SC, his wife’s condition demanded his immediate attention and return home.

Benchikha joined Simba SC with ambitious goals.  He aimed to propel the Msimbazi Street giants to the coveted CAF Champions League semi-finals, possibly even the championship itself.

He acknowledged the challenges faced, particularly the formidable Al Ahly, who eventually knocked Simba SC out in the quarterfinals.

“My biggest goals were to go to the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League and reach the finals and even win the title, but unfortunately it was not our luck,” Benchikha stated.

The coach noted: “I clearly admit that Al Ahly is a big club, despite beating us in the quarter-finals, but I was determined to win that game, unfortunately, I didn’t succeed.”

Benchikha emphasized that his departure was in no way a reflection of any discord with Simba SC’s management.

He passionately addressed the fans, assuring them that his decision stemmed solely from his wife's health concerns.

“The issue of my departure does not have any problem with the management of the Simba SC club, I want the fans to know that I have a family problem, let me make it clear that my wife has a health problem that has caused the termination of my contract with this club that I admit I love very much,” Benchikha declared.

He described his wife's condition as a constant source of worry, making it impossible for him to fully focus on his coaching duties. This, coupled with a strong desire to be by his wife’s side during this difficult time, ultimately led to his difficult decision.

“This health problem of my wife made my mind unable to calm down, so I felt there was a need to talk to my Guide to get time to return home to cooperate with my family to mourn my wife,” he explained.

Despite the unforeseen circumstances, Benchikha’s time with Simba SC appears to have left a lasting impression. He openly expressed his appreciation for the outpouring of love from the fans.

“While I am here in Tanzania, I am very surprised by the love of the fans of Simba SC, remember that I never worked here but I lived as a local, because every place I passed I saw love from them, and this is what makes me say that one day I will come back to work here again,” Benchikha noted.

He left the door open for a potential return,  vowing to remain a supporter of the club even from afar.  “Even if I will not return, I assure the fans that this team is in my heart, I will continue to fight even when I am at home, by showing any cooperation that will be needed from the leaders or players,” he said.

With Benchikha’s departure, Simba SC will look to Juma Mgunda to steer the ship as interim head coach, with Selemani Matola stepping up as his assistant. The fans, undoubtedly disappointed by the sudden change In leadership, will be eager to see how the team performs under Mgunda’s guidance.

While Benchikha’s time at Simba SC may have been cut short, his dedication to his family and his genuine appreciation for the club and its fans have left a mark.