For a young player who rose from academy football to the summit of Malawi’s top flight, Chikumbutso Salima’s next step marks both a personal triumph and a proud moment for local talent development. FCB Nyasa Big Bullets have confirmed that the 24-year-old forward has completed a transfer to Sudanese giants Al-Merrikh Sporting Club.
In a statement released by the club, Bullets said an agreement had been reached with Al-Merrikh SC for Salima’s transfer, bringing to an end a remarkable journey that began in the club’s reserves setup.
Bullets expressed gratitude to the forward for his service and impact at the club. “We thank Chikumbutso for his incredible contributions to Bullets and wish him continued success at Al-Merrikh SC,” the statement read.
Salima joined the Bullets’ reserves in 2022 from the Lawrence Waya Academy and quickly made his mark. His breakout season saw him scoop the Reserves’ Players’ Player of the Season award while finishing as top scorer in the FDH Bank Cup, performances that signaled the arrival of a special talent.
The following year, the forward was loaned out to Bangwe All Stars, where he continued his upward trajectory. At Bangwe, Salima earned multiple individual accolades and played a key role in helping the Blantyre-based side secure a top-eight finish in the TNM Super League.
His consistent progress earned him promotion to the Bullets’ first team in 2024. Over two seasons with the senior side, Salima established himself as one of the most productive attackers in the league, making 69 appearances across all competitions, scoring 29 goals, and registering an impressive 31 assists.
The 2025 season proved to be his most decisive yet. Salima featured in 28 league matches, netting 15 goals and providing 13 assists, a return that saw him share the Golden Boot award with Babatunde Adepoju. He also made four appearances in the Airtel Top 8, scoring once, and featured twice in the FDH Bank Cup.
