Fadlu Davids reveals emotional farewell to South African duo after Simba exit

Raja Athletic Club head coach Fadlu Davids has opened up about the difficult conversation he had with Neo Maema and Rushine De Reuck before his abrupt departure from Tanzanian giants Simba SC.

Davids’ exit came as a surprise, given Simba’s promising start to their CAF campaign. Speaking to members of the South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA), the former Orlando Pirates and Maritzburg United mentor said his priority was ensuring the continued progress of the two South African stars who had struggled for game time before moving to East Africa.

“I know Rushine because I was the one who gave him his debut at Maritzburg United,” Davids recalled. “He came for a trial carrying his boots in a plastic bag.”

The 44-year-old coach, who previously played for Manning Rangers, was instrumental in bringing Maema and De Reuck to Simba, citing their CAF experience and potential to strengthen the squad.

“Both needed support from a coach because they are top talents who haven’t had much game time in recent years. It was easy for me to recommend them, and the president backed me on the signings,” he explained.

‘A Difficult Conversation’

Before leaving, Davids sat down with the duo to break the news.

“I had that conversation with them. It was a difficult conversation,” he admitted.

Despite his exit, Davids expressed confidence in their ability to succeed:

“They’ve immediately established themselves as top players without me, and that shows their quality. They’ll manage even though they’ve lost their coach.”

Focus Shifts to Raja

Now at Raja Athletic Club, Davids is tasked with returning the Casablanca giants to the CAF Champions League. After seven matches, Raja remain unbeaten under his leadership, sitting fourth with 15 points.

Davids also highlighted the South African market as a key source for talent but warned that adapting to North African football requires mental toughness.

“We’re looking globally, and South Africa is definitely a market I know. But players need the right mentality to handle the pressures of a big club like Raja,” he said.