YOUNG Africans have significantly bolstered their squad this season with a slew of high-profile signings. While the acquisitions have undoubtedly strengthened the team, they've also presented coach Miguel Gamondi with a pleasant headache: selecting the starting eleven.

The likes of Prince Dube, Clatous Chama, Stephanie Aziz Ki, Maxi Nzengeli, Pacome Zouzoua, and Jean Baleke all boasting top-tier experience in the Premier League, join the ranks alongside Congolese newcomer Chadrack Boka. 

This abundance of talent has elevated Young Africans’ squad to new heights but has intensified the competition for starting spots. As the season unfolds, fans eagerly await to see how Gamondi will navigate this wealth of attacking options and assemble a winning combination.

While Khalid Aucho remains a stalwart in Young Africans' midfield, questions are emerging about the extent of his role as the team seeks to evolve. The Ugandan international has cemented his position as the defensive midfielder but there's a growing consensus that his performance has dipped. 

With age catching up with the Uganda Cranes vice-captain, Young Africans might be wise to explore options for a younger partner to share the midfield duties. Last season's dynamic duo of Nzengeli and Mudathir Yahya provided much-needed energy, with the latter emerging as a surprise goal scorer.

The arrival of Kenyan international Duke Abuya adds another dimension to Young Africans’ midfield options. However, accommodating him alongside Yahya and other attacking talents like Nzengeli, Chama, Aziz Ki, and Zouzoua presents a selection dilemma. 

Given the stiff competition for places, it's likely that Zouzoua could find himself on the bench. As a relative newcomer in his second season in the Premier League, he faces an uphill battle to secure a regular starting spot.

Ultimately, Young Africans’ midfield composition will be a delicate balancing act between experience, youth, and offensive firepower. That is why Gamondi faces a tough decision in selecting his midfield for the upcoming season. With a wealth of talent at his disposal, the competition for starting spots is fierce.

Crafty veteran Chama, a three-time champion with Simba SC and former league MVP, appears to be the early frontrunner. His illustrious past and proven ability make him a strong contender. Aziz Ki, last season's top scorer and potential MVP, is another formidable option. His goal-scoring prowess and midfield influence are undeniable. Nzengeli, a dynamic winger with an exceptional defensive work rate, adds another dimension to the mix.

While Ivorian Zouzoua possesses impressive pace and dribbling skills, he faces an uphill battle. Despite his creative abilities, his goal and assist numbers lag behind his competitors. Chama, Aziz Ki, and Nzengeli have consistently demonstrated their attacking prowess, giving them a clear edge in this area.

Young Africans’ fervent pursuit of Chama during the transfer window suggests he is likely to be a cornerstone of the team. A midfield trio of Nzengeli, Chama, and Aziz Ki, potentially with Ki on the right wing, could be a potent force. 

Zouzoua, though brimming with potential, will need to improve his goal contribution to secure a regular starting role. Nzengeli, meanwhile, has proven his versatility, excelling both as an attacking midfielder and a defensive-minded central midfielder.

Ultimately, coach Gamondi has a plethora of options at his disposal. The battle for midfield supremacy promises to be a captivating subplot as Young Africans aim to conquer the upcoming season.

Aziz Ki's impact on Young Africans is undeniable. His ability to contribute significantly in multiple areas of the pitch is a rare quality in Tanzanian football. Few players can match his end product and versatility. Unlike many attackers who neglect defensive duties, Aziz Ki is a tireless worker. His commitment to recovering possession is exceptional, making him a crucial asset to the team.

After a slow start to his Young Africans career, Aziz Ki exploded onto the scene last season with an impressive tally of 21 goals and eight assists. His performances have solidified his status as the team's talisman. Possessing exceptional technical skills, Ki is a potent goal scorer with a lethal shot from a distance. His set-piece ability is another weapon in his arsenal. Young Africans’ success is closely tied to Ki's contributions, and he undoubtedly deserves a starting position.

Young Africans’ aspirations of reaching the CAF Champions League final hinge on retaining the services of star player Aziz Ki. His exceptional performances in both the AFCON and the CAF Champions League have attracted interest from top African clubs. 

Securing Ki's long-term future is paramount for Young Africans’ continued dominance. While the arrival of experienced midfielder Chama is a significant boost, his advancing years mean his impact may be limited to a few seasons.

As the new season approaches, coach Gamondi now faces a selection dilemma. The competition for attacking places is fierce with Nzengeli, Chama, Aziz Ki, and Zouzoua vying for starting roles. Meanwhile, the battle for the main striker position is between Dube and Baleke.