Tanzanian Premier League side Tabora United has parted ways with head coach Francis Kimanzi and his assistant, Yusuf Chipo, following a string of disappointing performances in the 2024/25 NBC Premier League season. The decision comes after a challenging start to the campaign, with the team languishing in 11th place after accumulating just eight points from their opening eight matches.
The club’s management confirmed the dismissals, citing underperformance as the primary reason for the coaching duo’s exit.
The final straw for Kimanzi and Chipo came after a heavy 4-2 defeat to JKT Tanzania, a match that marked Tabora United’s most significant loss of the season.
Kimanzi’s departure underscores the increasingly high turnover of coaches in Tanzania’s top football division, making him the sixth manager to be sacked in the NBC Premier League this season.
The quick dismissal of managers has become a notable trend in Tanzanian football, reflecting the growing pressure on teams to deliver immediate results.
Kimanzi, who had been brought in to guide Tabora United through what was expected to be a competitive season, now finds himself out of a job, with his team failing to find the consistency needed to challenge higher up the table.
Despite early hopes that he could turn the team’s fortunes around, the Kenyan tactician could not reverse their downward trajectory.
Tabora United’s struggles have been evident throughout the season, with the team unable to convert solid performances into victories.
The team’s defense has particularly been a concern, having conceded 12 goals in their eight matches.
The loss to JKT Tanzania was a painful reminder of the team’s defensive frailties, as they allowed four goals despite a spirited attempt to fight back.
The decision to part ways with Kimanzi and Chipo now leaves the club searching for a new coaching team capable of steering them to safety in what promises to be a challenging remainder of the season.
As they look to avoid the relegation zone, the club’s management will be hoping to bring in a fresh perspective to reinvigorate the squad.
Tabora United fans, who have voiced their frustrations with the team’s form, will be eager to see whether new leadership can bring about the desired turnaround.
With the league still in its early stages, there remains time for the club to recover, but much will depend on how quickly the next head coach can settle in and address the team’s deficiencies.
Kimanzi’s exit also raises broader questions about the stability of coaching roles within the Tanzanian Premier League.
With high expectations from club owners and fans alike, coaches face immense pressure to deliver instant results, often at the expense of long-term team development.
As the club moves forward, Tabora United’s next steps will be crucial in determining their fate in the 2024/25 season, as they look to regroup and push for better results in the coming fixtures.
