Simba SC appoint Steve Barker, ending eight-year tenure at Stellenbosch

The Tanzanian giants announced the decision in a statement released on Friday, bringing an end to speculation surrounding their vacant technical role.

Barker replaces Dimitar Pantev, who was dismissed last month following a run of poor performances that left Simba SC dissatisfied with the team's progress.

"The club's board has reached an agreement to appoint Steve Robert Barker as the head coach of our team for a period of two years," the club said in a statement released on Friday.

"Barker, a South African citizen, has joined our squad from Stellenbosch FC in South Africa. Coach Barker holds an A license from the European Football Association (UEFA) as well as an A license from the Confederation of African Football (CAF)."

In confirming the change, the club also revealed that Barker will arrive in Tanzania with four assistants as part of his new technical team, underlining their intent to reset both on and off the pitch.

The appointment has come as a surprise given Barker's long association with Stellenbosch, where he has served as head coach since 2017. During his tenure, Barker enjoyed notable success, guiding the club to third-place finishes in the Betway Premiership in each of the last two seasons.

Those achievements had led to widespread speculation that his next move would be to a larger South African club rather than abroad.

However, the current campaign has proven far more challenging for Stellenbosch. Despite their recent high finishes, the club is now embroiled in a relegation battle and sits near the bottom of the league table.

Barker's departure at this juncture leaves Stellenbosch entering a critical period, with questions being raised about the club's short-term direction and broader football strategy.