As the anticipation builds for the upcoming 2023-24 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, set to commence on Friday, teams across the continent have been working diligently in the transfer market to bolster their squads in preparation for the competition.
Leading the charge is record champions Al Ahly SC, who have spared no expense to enhance their line-up.
The Egyptian powerhouse has invested approximately US$3.5 million in securing the talents of midfielder Emam Ashour from Danish club FC Midtjylland and Reda Slim from AS FAR Rabat, further solidifying their already formidable team.
Meanwhile, South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns have made strategic acquisitions, including Brazilian midfielder Lucas Ribeiro Costa from Belgian club SK Beveren. Additionally, they’ve welcomed Argentinian attacker Mendieta Junior from Stellenbosch FC, strengthening their offensive options.
Wydad AC, not to be outdone, has signed Libya international forward Hamdou Elhouni, who left Esperance de Tunis after the expiration of his contract. This move aims to bolster Wydad AC’s attacking prowess and elevate their chances in the competition.
Esperance de Tunis, another heavyweight contender, has been proactive in the transfer window, adding Brazilian duo Yan Sasse and Rodrigo Rodrigues Silva to their ranks. Algerian midfielder Houssam Ghacha has also joined the team from Turkish club Antalyaspor, adding depth to their midfield lineup.
Pyramids FC, embarking on their debut in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, has made waves with their ambitious signings. They’ve secured DR Congo striker Fiston Kalala Mayele from Young Africans SC, a significant move that reflects their determination to make a mark on the continental stage.
In addition, Pyramids FC has invested heavily to secure the talents of Mahmoud Marei, Mohanad Lasheen, and Mostafa Fathi from Future FC and Al Taawou, collectively spending over US$3 million on reinforcements.
Simba SC, another contender in the tournament, has bolstered their squad by acquiring Che Fondoh Malone Jr. However, the team faces the potential departure of Fabrice Luamba Ngoma to Al Hilal, while Luis Miquissone is reportedly linked with a move to Al Ahly SC.
Young Africans SC, in their pursuit of success, have also been active in the transfer market. They’ve secured the signatures of Pacome Zouzoua from ASEC Mimosas, Uganda international defender Gift Fred, and Hafiz Wontah Konkoni, a replacement for the departed Kalala Mayele.
Completing the landscape, Ghanaian champions Medeama SC have welcomed Zimbabwe international forward Kudakwashe Mahachi to their roster as they embark on their debut campaign in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.
With the diverse array of high-profile transfers and strategic moves, the upcoming tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of football excellence and fierce competition.
