IN a bid to bolster their squad for the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup, Coastal Union are eyeing the signatures of former AS Vita and Young Africans defender Djuma Shabani and Simba’s top scorer Saido Ntibanzokiza.

Shabani, who spent the entire last season without a team, is a free agent and an attractive prospect for Coastal Union as they prepare for the CAF competition.

Shabani’s recent history includes a brief stint with Azam. However, he was unable to register with the club due to their quota of 12 foreign players being filled. 

This left Shabani without a team for the season, making him available for Coastal Union’s ambitions. And now the Tanga-based club views his experience and defensive skills as vital assets as they aim to compete at a higher level.

Coastal Union’s pursuit of Shabani is part of a broader strategy to strengthen their squad in preparation for the CAF Confederation Cup next season. 

This tournament will be significant for the club, marking their return to international competition since their participation in the 1989 African Cup Winners’ Cup, where they were eliminated in the first round. The competition was later merged with the CAF Cup to form the current CAF Confederation Cup in 2004.

In addition to Shabani, Coastal Union are also said to be in talks with Ntibanzokiza, Simba’s top scorer for the 2023/24 season. 

Ntibanzokiza scored 11 goals last season, leading Simba’s scoring charts. His striking abilities make him a valuable addition to any team, and Coastal Union’s management sees him as a key player to bolster their attack.

Reports suggest that Ntibanzokiza has not renewed his contract with Simba, making a move to Coastal Union a strong possibility. 

The addition of Ntibanzokiza would significantly enhance Coastal Union’s offensive capabilities, complementing their efforts to assemble a formidable squad for the CAF Confederation Cup.

Simba, having finished third in the league last season, will also participate in the CAF Confederation Cup. The competition will be fierce, and Coastal Union are determined to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. 

Their proactive approach in the transfer market reflects their commitment to achieving success in the upcoming season.

Coastal Union’s fourth-place finish in the domestic league standings secured their spot in the CAF Confederation Cup for the 2024/25 season. This achievement has generated excitement among the club’s supporters and heightened expectations for their performance in the international arena. 

The club’s management is keenly aware of the challenges ahead and is focused on maintaining high standards while building on this season’s achievements.

The club's return to international competition is a milestone that underscores their progress over the years. The last time Coastal Union competed on a continental stage was more than three decades ago, and their re-entry into the CAF Confederation Cup signifies a new chapter in their history.

To ensure they are well-prepared, Coastal Union is not only targeting key signings but also focusing on overall team development. The management understands that a balanced and cohesive team is essential for navigating the rigors of international competition. 

By blending experienced players like Shabani with proven goal-scorers like Ntibanzokiza, Coastal Union aim to create a squad that can compete effectively and bring pride to their supporters.