Samatta becomes first Tanzanian to join French Ligue 1, joins Le Havre on one-year deal
What you need to know:
- Samatta’s success in Africa opened doors in Europe, starting with a move to Belgian side Genk. There, he helped secure the Belgian Pro League title and emerged among the league’s most feared forwards. His impressive form earned him a transfer to English Premier League club Aston Villa, followed by stints at Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, Royal Antwerp in Belgium, and a second spell at Genk.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzanian football icon Mbwana Ally Samatta has signed a one-year contract with French top-flight club Le Havre AC, marking a historic milestone as the first Tanzanian player to feature in Ligue 1.
Le Havre officially unveiled the 32-year-old forward earlier this week, confirming he will wear the number 70 shirt for the “Sky & Navy.” The move follows a decorated career that has taken Samatta from African football dominance to some of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
According to the club’s official website, Samatta was brought in for his experience, technical quality, lethal finishing, and calm leadership. “In Tanzania, there are two undisputed national treasures: Mount Kilimanjaro and Ally Samatta. And while Le Havre are no strangers to scaling heights, this time they’ve opted to bring a mountain of talent straight to Normandy,” read a statement on the club’s website.
Nicknamed “Samagoal” for his goal-scoring prowess, Samatta made his name at DR Congo giants TP Mazembe, where he won four league titles and helped the team capture the 2015 CAF Champions League. That same year, he finished as the tournament’s top scorer and was crowned African-Based Player of the Year.
Samatta’s success in Africa opened doors in Europe, starting with a move to Belgian side Genk. There, he helped secure the Belgian Pro League title and emerged among the league’s most feared forwards. His impressive form earned him a transfer to English Premier League club Aston Villa, followed by stints at Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, Royal Antwerp in Belgium, and a second spell at Genk.
Most recently, Samatta played for Greek side PAOK Thessaloniki, where he played a key role in the club’s 2023–24 Super League triumph.
Now with Le Havre, Samatta brings with him not just experience, but the ability to influence games with his intelligence, strength, and sharp instincts in the final third. Though reserved off the pitch, his presence inside the box commands attention — a blend of poise, precision, and power that defenders struggle to contain.
Le Havre, one of France’s oldest football institutions, will hope Samatta’s arrival adds firepower and leadership as they look to solidify their presence in Ligue 1.
For Samatta, it’s not just another transfer — it’s a chance to make history, break new ground, and fly the Tanzanian flag high in one of the world’s elite leagues.
