San Diego FC has made a significant addition to their roster by signing striker Cédric Bakambu, a move that is expected to bolster their attacking options as they aim for success in the upcoming MLS season. The club confirmed the signing on Thursday, stating that Bakambu will be with the team through the 2026 MLS season, with options extending through 2027-28.
At 35 years old, Bakambu arrives at San Diego FC as a free agent, having last played for Real Betis in LaLiga. His experience in top European leagues and international competitions will be invaluable as the team looks to build on their promising start in Major League Soccer.
Bakambu's international career has been noteworthy, highlighted by his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he played a crucial role for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The team, making its World Cup debut, reached the Round of 32, showcasing Bakambu's ability to perform on the biggest stages of football.
Tyler Heaps, the sporting director for San Diego FC, expressed enthusiasm about Bakambu's arrival, stating, "Cédric brings an incredible level of experience and proven quality to San Diego FC. He has built an outstanding career competing at the highest levels in Europe and internationally, and his ability to consistently find the back of the net has been a defining part of his game. He understands what it takes to perform on the biggest stages and brings a winning mentality that will be extremely valuable to our group."
Throughout his career, Bakambu has amassed an impressive record, tallying 191 goals and 49 assists in 492 professional matches. His journey began at French club Sochaux, and he has since played for several notable teams, including Villarreal in Spain, Marseille in France, Olympiacos in Greece, and Galatasaray in Turkey, among others.
Internationally, Bakambu has represented DR Congo since 2015, earning 72 caps and scoring 21 goals. He has participated in four Africa Cups of Nations and played a pivotal role in helping DR Congo secure their historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Bakambu joins a San Diego FC attack that features Designated Player wingers Anders Dreyer and Elias Achouri, along with striker Marcus Ingvartsen, who has contributed significantly with 21 goals and 16 assists combined. Achouri also joined the team this summer after his World Cup experience with Tunisia.
San Diego FC is coming off a historic expansion campaign in 2025 and is currently striving for a second consecutive appearance in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. They currently sit eighth in the Western Conference standings with 30 points, and the addition of Bakambu could be a key factor in their playoff aspirations.
Leave a Comment