Pantev’s Simba tenure begins
NEW Simba SC Chief Manager Dimitar Pantev has said his immediate focus is preparing the team for the upcoming CAF Champions League qualifiers, with group stage qualification set as his top priority.
The Bulgarian arrived in Dar es Salaam yesterday and has wasted no time setting the tone for his first days in the country as Simba’s Manager, stressing the importance of efficient preparation and familiarity with the squad.
“We have little time before the next match, so every session is crucial. Our first goal is to reach the group stage. The club has high ambitions and we are here to match them,” Pantev said.
He is not new to African football. He has managed clubs in Cameroon, Sierra Leone and Botswana, and believes that background will help him adapt quickly. Having previously faced Simba in continental competition with Gaborone United, he says he already has a working knowledge of many of the players.
That familiarity, he hopes, will allow for quicker integration and clearer communication as he begins training with the squad.
“I know their style and strengths from that match (against Gaborone United in CAF Champions League clash last weekend). Now it’s about building chemistry and understanding the finer details with help from my staff,” he said.
The coach also acknowledged the pressure of expectations from Simba’s supporters, particularly after the team missed out on the Mainland Premier League title in recent seasons.
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“I know Simba fans are passionate and demand success. I’m not here to make promises, but I can guarantee that we will give everything in training and in matches,” said Pantev.
While the club is undergoing transition following the departure of Fadlu Davids to Raja Casablanca, Pantev says he does not intend to make immediate changes to the technical setup.
“This is not the moment for big changes. We will evaluate everything, but the focus now is on performance. During the next transfer window, we may consider adjustments, depending on how we perform,” he said.
Simba SC’s Media and Communication Manager, Ahmed Ally, addressed reporters following the coach’s arrival, explaining the reasoning behind Dimitar Pantev’s official title as Chief Manager, rather than the more commonly used Head Coach in Tanzanian football.
According to Ally, the title reflects a broader and more strategic role within the club’s football operations.
“Coach Pantev will not only lead from the touchline but will also oversee all aspects of team development and performance,” said Ally.
He explained that, traditionally, coaches in Tanzanian football have been limited to managing matches and training sessions. However, under this new structure, Pantev’s responsibilities extend beyond the pitch.
“He will supervise all areas of the team including the player manager, kit manager, medical staff and technical bench. He will also have a say in transfer matters and long-term squad planning,” Ally added.
