How Simba SC lured Bajaber to Dar

Harambee Stars midfielder Mohamed Bajaber training with Simba SC in Egypt. [Simba SC] In the middle of Kenya's preparations for 2024 African Nations Championship (Chan), one of Harambee Stars' brightest sparks quietly slipped away from the camp. Not for lack of love for the red, green, and black jersey, but to answer a call that could change his football life forever. Mohamed Omar Ali Bajaber, the 22-year-old attacking midfielder, swapped national duty for Tanzania's football powerhouse Simba SC when the national team needed him most. The Tanzanian giants have now revealed that they were not signing just another midfielder but that it was about adding a rare piece of artistry to their squad. "We wanted a player who is skillful on the ball, can thrill the fans, and still deliver results," Simba SC spokesperson and communication manager Ahmed Ally revealed, explaining why Bajaber topped their recruitment list this season. For Bajaber, who featured for Kenya Police before turning pro, the decision came with a bittersweet twist. "It was sad to leave the Harambee Stars team for this Chan, but I felt it was wiser to take a full preseason to recover fully from my injury. I had an injury, and I was not sure about my fitness. In the end, I chose not to risk it and focus on this big opportunity," said Bajaber, who is currently with Simba in Egypt for preseason. Bajaber scored in their 2-0 friendly match against Kahraba Ismailia yesterday. Speaking to Standard Sports at Simba offices in Dar es Salaam, Ahmed painted a vivid picture of a club hungry for not only domestic but also continental supremacy. Ranked the best in Eastern and Central Africa and fifth overall in the recent CAF listing, Simba has reached the Champions League quarter-finals more than five times. Ahmed said their modern structure, including a board system and an extensive scouting network, has been key to consistently attracting top talent. "We have consistently signed quality players across Africa, with Bajaber, the decision was easy. The FKF Premier League is being broadcast live, which lets us follow his progress closely. Even when injury delayed our move, we knew we would come back for him," said Ahmed. Ahmed disclosed they are planning to host an unnamed FKF Premier League club during this year's Simba Day to boost fan interest and regional football rivalry. "There was a time when the Kenyan League almost disappeared due to wrangles, but now it is coming back strong. We are planning to host one of FKF PL teams, which we feel would excite fans here during Simba Day, and that will show that East African football is on the rise again," said Ahmed. Simba boasts a proud tradition of Kenyan recruits, from Paul Kiongera to Francis Kahata and Joash Onyango; the list is endless. In Bajaber, the Wekundu wa Msimbazi, as they are better known here, saw a utility player blending flair and efficiency. "He can play as a number 10, he can also play at the wings (11 and 7), and he is not just a passer but also creates moments. We compare him with players like Zinedine Zidane, we have had such players in Haruna Moshi and Ibrahim Ajib," said Ahmed. Kenya Police FC were understandably reluctant to lose one of their brightest stars after a

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