By SABC Sport
4th January 2024
Samatta's journey from the local pitches of his hometown to playing in some of Europe's top leagues is a testament to his skill, determination and the growing influence of African players on the global stage.
He’s a popular figure among betting sites in Tanzania for that reason, so let’s take a look back at his sporting life so far.
Early years and rise in Tanzania
Samatta's footballing journey began in the streets of Dar es Salaam, where he honed his skills and showcased a natural talent for the game.
His early performances for local clubs, including Simba SC in Tanzania, caught the attention of scouts and paved the way for his ascent in the footballing world.
His goal-scoring prowess and ability to lead from the front marked him as a rising star in Tanzanian football.
Move to TP Mazembe and African success
In 2011, Samatta made a significant move to TP Mazembe, a prominent club based in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This transition proved to be a turning point in his career.
Playing for TP Mazembe, Samatta achieved considerable success, both domestically and in continental competitions.
He played a pivotal role in the team's triumph in the CAF Champions League, showcasing his scoring ability and contributing to TP Mazembe's status as one of Africa's football powerhouses.
European adventure with KRC Genk
Mbwana Samatta's standout performances in Africa did not go unnoticed, and in 2016, he made the leap to European football by joining KRC Genk in the Belgian Pro League.
The transition from African to European football is often challenging, but Samatta adapted seamlessly. His goal-scoring exploits earned him accolades and cemented his reputation as a lethal striker.
During the 2018-2019 season, Samatta achieved a remarkable feat by leading KRC Genk to the Belgian Pro League title. This was a huge turning point for his position on the world stage.
Aston Villa and Premier League journey
In January 2020, Mbwana Samatta took another significant step in his career by joining Aston Villa in the English Premier League.
His move to one of the most competitive football leagues in the world was a testament to his continuous growth and the recognition of his abilities on a global scale.
Samatta's time at Aston Villa showcased his adaptability to the rigorous demands of the Premier League. While facing formidable opponents, he demonstrated glimpses of his goal-scoring prowess.
His memorable goal in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City endeared him to Villa fans and highlighted his ability to perform on the biggest stages.
Loan spells and international contributions
After his stint with Aston Villa, Samatta embarked on loan spells with Fenerbahçe in Turkey, and later, Fenerbahçe's local rivals, Sivasspor.
These experiences provided him with the opportunity to explore different footballing cultures and styles, contributing to his growth as a versatile player.
On the international stage, Mbwana Samatta has been a key figure for the Tanzanian national team, representing his country with distinction.
His leadership and goal-scoring exploits have played a crucial role in Tanzania's footballing aspirations, inspiring a new generation of football enthusiasts in his homeland.