Tanzania giants Yanga SC have sacked their head coach, Romain Folz, and have replaced him with a Kaizer Chiefs legend. The French tactician’s departure comes just months after he took the helm of Timu Ya Wananchi.
The club issued a brief statement on the decision following their 1-0 loss to Malawian outfit Silver Strikers in the CAF Champions League on Saturday. It was Folz’s first loss of the season in Lilongwe in the second preliminary round of the Champions League.
“The Management of Young Africans Sports Club would like to inform the public that it has terminated the contract of the Head Coach of the first team, Romain Folz,” the statement reads.
Folz, who joined Yanga in July 2025, had a short but notable stint, guiding the club to the Community Shield title at the expense of their rivals Simba SC last month. He also steered the team into the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.
However, recent reports suggested dissatisfaction within the club’s hierarchy and fan base regarding the team’s style of play, particularly following a recent draw against Mbeya City in the domestic league.
PATRICK MABEDI TAKES INTERIM CHARGE
Yanga’s management extended their gratitude to the former AmaZulu FC and Marumo Gallants coach. “The Club’s management extends its sincere gratitude to Coach Romain Folz for his contributions during his time with us and wishes him all the best in his future endeavours.”
In the interim, the team will be led by former Kaizer Chiefs captain and assistant coach Patrick Mabedi. The former Amakhosi defender recently joined the technical team to work alongside Folz, and he now steps up to take temporary charge.
The club has confirmed that the process of appointing a new, permanent head coach is underway.
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