Davids aims for strategic additions to maintain Simba’s competitive edge

By Seth Mapoli , The Guardian
Published at 01:55 PM Jan 03 2025
SIMBA Sports Club head coach, Fadlu Davids
Photo: Agencies
SIMBA Sports Club head coach, Fadlu Davids

SIMBA Sports Club head coach, Fadlu Davids, has set his sights on bolstering his squad during the current transfer window, aiming for strategic additions to maintain the team’s competitive edge.

Reflecting on the team’s performance after completing 15 Premier League first-round matches and their upcoming CAF Confederation Cup fixtures, Davids emphasized the need for quality over quantity in new signings.

The South African tactician said: “I want to sit down with the management to evaluate the market and identify the best player to strengthen our squad during this limited transfer window. 

“We do not need to sign for the sake of it. The focus is on bringing in a player who can immediately take charge or create serious competition within the team.”

Davids outlined the critical areas that need improvement, noting that additions are necessary across all departments - defense, midfield, and attack. 

He believes these changes are essential for the team to stay competitive in both domestic and continental competitions.

“The competition in the Premier League is intense. Teams like Azam FC, Singida Black Stars, and Yanga all have the capacity to win the championship. To keep our edge, we must continue to strengthen our squad,” he said.

Simba concluded the first round of the Premier League at the top of the table with 40 points from 15 matches. The team registered 13 wins, one draw, and one loss, scoring 31 goals and conceding only five.

Turning his focus to the CAF Confederation Cup, Davids described Simba’s group as the “group of death,” underscoring the high level of competition among the teams.

“In our group, every team has the potential to qualify. Only two teams will advance, but realistically, all four teams have a chance. For us, it’s crucial to secure strong results in the two remaining away matches and the final home game,” he said.

Davids acknowledged the team’s missteps during their 2-1 loss to CS Constantine in Algeria. He expressed disappointment over missed opportunities to secure at least a point in that match but highlighted that the players have learned from their mistakes.

“We need to change our approach and avoid the errors we made in Algeria. That was a match where we could have taken all three points, or at the very least, one. We cannot afford similar mistakes moving forward,” he added.

Davids also addressed the performance of new signing Elie Mpanzu, a winger who joined Simba during the January  transfer window. 

Despite fans eagerly awaiting goals and assists from the player, Davids expressed satisfaction with Mpanzu’s contributions on the field.

“I am very pleased with Mpanzu’s level. I know the fans are eager to see him score or assist, but as a coach, I see the other great things he brings to the team. 

“I urge Simba fans and football lovers to stay patient. He is a high-level player, and I am confident he will surprise everyone,” said Davids.

With Simba leading the Premier League standings and vying for progress in the CAF Confederation Cup, Davids remains focused on achieving both domestic and continental success. 

His emphasis on strategic squad reinforcement, learning from past mistakes, and maximizing the potential of new signings reflects his commitment to the club’s ambitions.