IN August, former Harambee Stars head coach Francis Kimanzi embarked on a new chapter in his coaching career, joining the Tanzania Mainland Premier League as the head coach of Tabora United.

The team had narrowly escaped relegation the previous season and was eager to make its mark in the current campaign. 

To bolster their squad, Tabora United made significant investments during the transfer window, including the high-profile signings of former Young Africans’ players Heritier Makambo and Yacouba Songne, and Nigerian international goalkeeper Victor Sochima.

However, just two months later, both Kimanzi (pictured) and his assistant coach, Yusuf Chipo, have left the club. 

Christina Mwagala, the head of media for Tabora United, confirmed that the decision to part ways with the Kenyan coaches was due to the team's underwhelming performance, despite the club's heavy spending in the off-season.

“The club made major signings this season to deliver strong results, but that wasn’t happening. Losing four matches in a row was tough for the club and our fans," Mwagala said.

During Kimanzi’s tenure, the team managed just eight points from eight matches, placing them 11th on the league table. 

Despite the investments, Tabora United's performances failed to meet expectations, leading to growing frustration within the club. 

Their heaviest defeat, a 4-2 loss to JKT Tanzania, proved to be the breaking point. Notably, Kimanzi and Chipo attended the match from the stands rather than the touchline, adding fuel to speculation about internal tensions.

There were reports of friction between the coaching staff and club management, with rumours swirling about issues related to the coaches' licensing and contracts. 

However, Mwagala dismissed these claims, insisting that the decision to part ways was a mutual one. 

"We are not saying Kimanzi is not a good coach. He has a strong profile, but sometimes things just don’t work out in football, no matter your experience," she stated.

Kimanzi’s exit marks the sixth coaching change in the NBC Premier League this season, highlighting the pressure and instability faced by managers in Tanzanian football. 

Despite the premature end to his tenure, Kimanzi did have some positive moments, including wins over Namungo and Kagera Sugar, as well as a draw against Tanzania Prisons. 

However, losses to top teams like Simba SC, Singida, and Dodoma Jiji sealed his fate.

Kimanzi’s departure has left Tabora United searching for a new direction as they aim to turn their season around and avoid slipping into a relegation battle.