Jean-Florent Ibenge has officially been appointed head coach of Tanzanian Premier League side Azam FC, the club confirmed via its social media platforms.
The Congolese tactician steps into a role filled with high expectations and a clear mandate: to elevate Azam FC’s standing within a rapidly developing league.
Ibenge arrives at a pivotal moment for the club, which is determined to solidify its position among Tanzania’s football elite.
The league itself has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with Tanzanian clubs featuring prominently on the continental stage. Notably, two teams from the country have reached the Confederation Cup final within the past three seasons, reflecting the rising competitiveness of Tanzanian football.
This new chapter follows Ibenge’s decision not to renew his contract with Sudan’s Al Hilal Omdurman, where he served as head coach for three seasons.
His tenure at Al Hilal began in August 2022 after departing Morocco’s Renaissance de Berkane. At Al Hilal, Ibenge initially enjoyed success, guiding the club to a league title in his first season.
However, the following campaign was marred by political instability in Sudan, which impacted the team’s performance. Despite the challenges and numerous offers elsewhere, Ibenge chose to honour his contract, exemplifying his commitment and professionalism.
Speaking to FOOT.CD, Ibenge expressed his appreciation for Azam FC’s leadership style, highlighting their measured approach to growth as a key factor in his decision to join the club.
“In life, when you’re in third place, you also want to move forward. The club’s leaders are patient, and that’s what I like. They’re progressing slowly but surely, understanding exactly where they want to go. They’re building steadily, much like major clubs that achieved success after years of investment—like Paris Saint-Germain, who have only recently started winning despite years of spending. The same applies to Chelsea or Manchester United. It’s a process that demands time and perseverance.”
He continued by emphasizing the club’s ambitions and the pathway to achieving them.
“Azam want to reach the top of Tanzanian football and then look further ahead. The project is clear in terms of ambition, but how do we accomplish it? We need to focus more on quality training while embracing the club’s core values. That is what will make the difference.”
Ibenge’s arrival coincides with a season in which Azam FC took part in the Mauritanian championship to maintain competitive sharpness.
The team clinched an honorary title as champions and impressed with a solid run in the African Champions League, advancing to the quarter-finals of the group stage—a testament to their growing stature on the continent.
With Ibenge at the helm, Azam FC seeks to build on this momentum, combining patience and strategic development with a commitment to excellence both on and off the pitch.
His proven track record, combined with his measured outlook on club progression, aligns well with Azam’s vision for sustained success in Tanzanian football and beyond.
As Tanzanian football continues to rise in prominence across Africa, Ibenge’s stewardship could mark a crucial step in Azam FC’s quest to establish itself as a dominant force domestically and on the continental stage.