Mohamed Bajaber Faces Uncertain Simba Future Under New Coach Dimitar Pantev

Kenyan midfielder Mohamed Bajaber is staring at a possible early exit from Simba SC, just over two months after joining the Tanzanian Premier League giants from Kenya Police FC. 

According to multiple reports from Dar es Salaam, the 22-year-old could be released in December after what was initially thought to be a minor thigh strain has now been described as a long-term injury.

Bajaber signed a two-year contract with Simba in August following a breakout season in the FKF Premier League, where he helped Kenya Police clinch their first-ever league title. 

His arrival was met with excitement among Simba fans, who saw him as a creative spark for the midfield ahead of the club’s busy league and CAF Champions League campaign.

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However, things have taken a different turn. The youngster has yet to make his competitive debut for the Wekundu wa Msimbazi, and sources indicate that the club’s medical team has raised concerns about his recovery timeline. 

His injury, sustained just before the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), appears to be more serious than initially feared, with suggestions he might be sidelined for several more months.

“The situation is not looking good. The doctors say Bajaber’s recovery is slower than expected, and the new coach wants fully fit players for the Champions League,” a source close to the Simba camp said. 

“If there’s no major improvement soon, the club might have to make a tough decision in December.”

Compounding the uncertainty is the arrival of new head coach Dimitar Pantev, who took over the team a week ago following the departure of South African tactician Fadlu Davids. 

The Bulgarian coach is reportedly evaluating his squad ahead of Simba’s CAF Champions League second preliminary round clash with Nsingizini FC of Eswatini, and insiders say he is open to making changes by the mid-season transfer window.

According to reports, Pantev has prioritized players who are fully fit and ready to compete immediately, leaving Bajaber’s position in jeopardy. 

With midfielders such as Elie Mpanzu, Kibu Dennis, and Joshua Mutale performing strongly in training, the injured Kenyan could struggle to reclaim a place once he returns.

Sources within the club claim Simba’s management might opt to release Bajaber in December if his recovery does not show significant progress. While no official statement has been issued, the decision is said to be under consideration as the team looks to free up space and wages for new signings.

For Bajaber, who was tipped as one of Kenya’s brightest prospects after his stunning goal against The Gambia on his Harambee Stars debut, this would be a cruel setback. 

His move to Simba was supposed to be a major step forward in his career, but now, the talented midfielder finds himself fighting to stay on the books of the Tanzanian giants — without having kicked a ball in competitive action.