YOUNG Africans SC have made the unexpected decision to part ways with Argentine head coach Angel Miguel Gamondi, despite the team’s relatively strong start to the league season.

While some initially attributed his dismissal to consecutive defeats - 1-0 against Azam FC and 3-1 against Tabora United FC - insiders reveal that the reasons run deeper. 

Reports suggest dissatisfaction with Gamondi’s tactical approach and a series of lackluster performances, even in matches where results were favourable.

Young Africans secured eight wins in their first ten league matches, yet many of these victories were narrow 1-0 outcomes, which raised concerns among fans and club management. 

Known for their dynamic, attacking football, Young Africans’ inability to dominate opponents this season stood in stark contrast to their emphatic displays in Gamondi’s first year at the helm.

During his debut season, Gamondi (pictured) transformed Young Africans into a force to be reckoned with, delivering memorable results such as the 5-1 thrashing of arch-rivals Simba SC and dominant victories like 4-0 against Dodoma Jiji and CR Belouizdad in the CAF Champions League. 

These performances set a high standard that the team has struggled to meet this season.

Gamondi’s dismissal wasn’t solely tied to on-field performances. His conduct off the pitch also played a role, most notably his suspension and TSh 2 million fine for physically confronting Singida Black Stars’ fitness coach, Sliman Marloene, during halftime at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar. 

This incident, a violation of Premier League regulations, further strained his relationship with the club.

Combined with a perceived lack of progress in team performance, these factors led Young Africans’ management to act decisively.

To fill the void left by Gamondi, Young Africans have appointed German tactician Sead Ramović as head coach. The former TS Galaxy manager (2021-2024) faces the dual challenge of defending Young Africans’ domestic titles and competing in the CAF Champions League.

Ramović, known for his disciplined tactical approach, has experience building resilient teams, but some fans remain skeptical of whether his relatively modest managerial background is sufficient for a club of Young Africans’ stature.

Young Africans’ management has placed immense trust in Ramović to restore the team’s attacking prowess and bring consistency to their performances. The club’s goals for the season are ambitious: retaining the NBC Premier League title, the Federation Cup, and making significant strides in the CAF Champions League.

For Ramović, the immediate priority will be to win over fans and reinvigorate a squad that has struggled to replicate its past dominance. Key players like Stephane Aziz Ki, Clatous Chama, and Clement Mzize will be integral to this effort as the team looks to rediscover its flair and confidence on the pitch.

Despite the circumstances of his departure, Gamondi’s contributions to Young Africans cannot be overlooked. He led the club to unprecedented success in recent years, including breaking a 25-year drought by reaching the CAF Champions League group stage and advancing to the quarterfinals.

Under his leadership, Young Africans claimed the Premier League title, the Federation Cup, and the Community Shield, while also delivering unforgettable victories against both domestic and continental rivals. His impact on Tanzanian football will be remembered, even as the club moves in a new direction.

Gamondi’s exit marks the end of an era for Young Africans, but it also presents an opportunity for renewal. Under Ramović, the club aims to maintain its status as a powerhouse in Tanzanian football and make deeper inroads on the African stage.

As Young Africans embarks on this new chapter, the focus remains on meeting the high expectations of its management, players, and passionate fanbase. 

Whether Ramović can meet the challenge and guide Young Africans to sustained success will be a story worth following.