Two times Council of East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) club champions Azam FC head Coach Florent Ibenge has turned down an offer for coaching Mali’s national team.
Ibenge turned down the offer after Azam FC offered him a contract extension until 2028 and a substantial salary increase of $10,000, equivalent to approximately 26 million Tanzanian shillings.
The Mainland Premier League club confirmed the new two-year deal through its official social media platforms, keeping the Congolese coach at the Chamazi-based side for the long term.
The announcement comes a week after the Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) shortlisted Ibenge among five candidates for the vacant national team position. In a statement, Azam said the extension reflects the club’s commitment to its long term project and confidence in Ibenge’s leadership.
“Azam FC are pleased to announce that Florent Ibenge will remain at the club until 2028,” the statement read.
“The club continues with its long-term vision and believes the coach’s experience and knowledge are important in achieving our objectives.” After signing a two-year extension keeping him at Azam FC until 2028, Head Coach Florent Ibenge expressed his delight to continue, citing a positive working environment and mutual respect with management.
Ibenge revealed that leadership’s satisfaction with his performance was key to the extension, noting that the club remains committed to their ongoing, long-term project.
“I’m very happy and grateful to the club’s leadership for their confidence,” Ibenge said.
“We started a long-term project and are still moving forward. They are pleased with my work and I am equally happy to be here. The most important thing is respect. I respect them and they respect me.” Under the DR Congo tactician, Azam FC continues to establish itself as a top contender in the Mainland Premier League, as well as in domestic and continental competitions.
Ibenge joined Azam FC in July 2025 after replacing Moroccan coach Rachid Taoussi ahead of the 2025/26 season marking the Congolese tactician’s return to club football following his departure from Sudan’s Al-Hilal Omdurman.
The 63-year-old, one of Africa’s most decorated managers, has penned the deal with the Tanzanian Premier League outfit ahead of the 2025/26 season
