Sasse Yan of Esperance Tunis during the CAF Champions League 2025/26 match between Esperance and Simba SC at Stade Olympique de Radès in Radès, Tunisia on 24 January 2025 ©Mehrez Toujani//BackpagePix
Wednesday Feb 04, 2026. 13:00
Neo Maema has provided clarity on his current contract situation, stating he is at Simba S.C. on loan.
The 30-year-old joined the Tanzanian giants from Mamelodi Sundowns in August, with the club issuing a farewell message that felt like a permanent parting of ways.
“After four incredible years, four league titles, one Nedbank Cup, one MTN8, one African Football League title, 120 appearances, 13 goals, and 14 assists, the Yellow Nation bid farewell to Neo Maema. We wish you success in the next chapter of your career,” the club posted on social media upon his move to Dar es Salaam.
However, speaking to Andile Ncube on Metro FM’s Sports Night Amplified, the midfielder stated that he is not at his current club on a permanent deal.
A lot of people aren’t aware, but for me to come to Tanzania was very difficult because I had to negotiate with the club. People don’t know that I’m actually on loan, I still have to go back and hear what they have to say,” said Maema.
The player admitted that at the moment, his future is up in the air.
“I’m on loan and I don’t know why it wasn’t disclosed. I think after this I have two options – Simba are either going to trigger or maybe we part ways. For now, I don’t have an exact answer.”
Maema has made nine appearances in all competitions for Simba, who sit sixth on the Tanzanian Premier League table with five wins, one draw and one loss from seven league games.
The club has struggled in the CAF Champions League under new head coach and Maema’s fellow South African Steve Barker, sitting bottom of group D with three losses and one draw from their four games. With just two group stage games remaining, the club’s chances of advancing to the knockout stage are slim.
By Nic Gleeson