By Swaleh
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has reportedly caught the eye of Tanzanian heavyweights Simba SC, who are in the market for a new tactician after parting ways with South African coach Fadlu Davids.
McCarthy, who took charge of the Kenyan national team in March 2025, has quickly raised his profile on the continent. His biggest achievement so far came when he guided Kenya to the quarter-finals of the CHAN 2024 tournament, a run that won him admirers both at home and abroad.
Simba Begin Coach Hunt After Davids’ Exit
Simba confirmed Davids’ departure on Monday, bringing to an end weeks of speculation. The 43-year-old had only joined the Dar es Salaam outfit in July 2024 but made an immediate impact.
In just one season, Davids led Simba to a second-place finish in the Tanzanian Premier League, narrowly missing out on the title by a single point to arch-rivals Yanga. He also masterminded their run to the CAF Confederation Cup final, cementing Simba’s reputation as one of Africa’s most ambitious clubs. His move to Raja Casablanca of Morocco now leaves Simba with a big void to fill at the start of the season.
McCarthy Approached, but Will He Bite?
According to reports in South Africa and Tanzania, Simba officials have reached out to McCarthy to gauge his availability. However, it is not yet clear if the 47-year-old would be willing to abandon his Harambee Stars project midway.
Kenya’s rebuilding process under McCarthy has given fans hope of a return to the big stage, and sources close to the coach suggest he remains committed to his long-term vision. Still, the lure of club football—especially at a giant like Simba with continental ambitions—could prove tempting.
Gamondi Also in the Frame
While McCarthy’s name has generated buzz, Tanzanian media report that Miguel Gamondi, the former Yanga SC coach, is the current frontrunner. Gamondi has unfinished business in Dar es Salaam and is seen as a safe pair of hands given his previous success in the Tanzanian league.
Simba Fans on Edge
With their season already underway—Simba beat Gaborone United 1-0 in the CAF Champions League preliminary round on Saturday and face Singida Big Stars in their league opener on Thursday—the pressure is on management to move quickly.
For now, McCarthy’s future hangs in the balance. Will he continue to build his Harambee Stars legacy, or could Simba convince him to cross the border for a new challenge in Tanzania?
