Rainbow tactician unfazed by the exit of the highly-rated Ali

Contrary to the expectations of many, Rainbow FC head coach Evans Macharia has downplayed the exit of attacking midfielder Ali Salim as a blow to the club heading to their debut in the National Super League.

The Tanzanian midfielder left Rainbow in two days ago after apparently securing a better deal abroad although Rainbow honchos are tight-lipped on the youngster’s destination.

Ali had demonstrated class in the few matches he had played for the club, making him an asset that Macharia would want to rely on in the new season.

However, Rainbow will have to do without his service heading to their first season in the second tier.

Rainbow secured promotion to the Super League after winning the Division One Zone A league. The club was promoted alongside Luanda Villa who won the Zone B league and Nairobi United who clinched the promotion/relegation playoff.

“The exit of Ali isn’t a blow for us as we are in the business of sending players to Europe. He got another club and he is likely to be unveiled in the course of the week. His career progression should be a source of motivation to the rest of our players,” said Macharia.

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With the transfer window set to close in three days’ time, Macharia expressed confidence in landing a replacement for Ali who did incredibly well in the second edition of the Elite Pre-season Cup.

The 2023-2024 Super League is also scheduled to kick off this weekend with Rainbow taking on Darajani Gogo.

“There is talent all over the country and beyond. We will definitely get a good player who will fill in the gap left by Ali,” stated Macharia.

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Ahead of their debut in the second tier, the tactician in the meanwhile remains positive of a good start and a successful campaign.

“The results we have posted in the friendly matches we have played against top tier teams shows that we are ready for the task ahead,” added Macharia.