Time for new direction to restore Simba ‘s glory- Julio

DAR ES SALAAM: IN a powerful and timely appeal, former Simba SC stalwart Jamhuri Kihwelo ‘Julio’ has urged the club’s leadership to step aside for a new generation of football minds.

He declared that only bold reform can return the Tanzanian giants to their former dominance both at home and in Africa.

Julio, a Simba legend from the 1980s and ‘90s who later transitioned into coaching, didn’t mince words as he spoke to journalists this week. He called for an urgent shake-up in the club’s management, saying that outdated leadership is holding Simba back from achieving modern football standards.

“It’s time those who have stayed too long in leadership roles stepped aside to allow new people with progressive plans to move Simba forward,” Julio stated.

Having coached teams such as Coastal Union, Singida Fountain Gate and KMC, Julio brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the local football landscape. He emphasised the necessity of professionalism, especially in areas like player recruitment.

“Transfer duties should be entrusted to people who truly understand football. Otherwise, the club will continue to struggle to sign quality players capable of achieving its goals,” said the club’s legend.

Julio also voiced his concern over Simba’s recent on-field struggles, particularly their unprecedented five consecutive losses to fierce rivals Young Africans SC.

“It’s unheard of for Simba to lose five times in a row to Yanga while the leadership stays silent, as if it’s normal. We need leaders who feel the pain of the fans and understand what football demands,” he said.

He criticised the growing culture of entitlement within the club’s administration, warning that personal interests are being placed above the team’s success.

“Simba is not a property of a few individuals driven by selfish interests. The game is evolving. During our four consecutive league titles, we had a squad full of top-quality, well-recruited players. That’s the standard we must return to,” he stressed.

The former Taifa Stars defender who also played for CDA, Julio concluded his remarks by stressing that any new leadership must prioritise recruiting consistent, battle-hardened players—not injury-prone or unmotivated performers.

“If we want Simba to fight on the pitch, we need warriors—not passengers,” he said.

ALSO READ: PM commends Yanga, Simba for excellence

Julio’s passionate call is a wake-up call to Simba SC: Adapt or risk losing the triumph legacy built over decades.