Congolese defender Brooklyn Kabongolo makes instant impact after Arbroath loan move

Brooklyn Kabongolo has settled quickly at Arbroath and now plays a key role in the Scottish Second Division side’s defence after joining on loan from Livingston.

The Congolese centre-back moved in search of regular minutes after he struggled to earn playing time at Livingston, where heavy competition limited his chances.

He embraced the switch immediately and now delivers the consistency he could not secure at his parent club.

Kabongolo arrived at Arbroath at a time when the team needed stability at the back, and he responded with authority.

He commands his defensive zone, reads danger early and brings a calm presence to the back line.

His form has strengthened the trust between him and the coaching staff, who now hand him key responsibilities during matches.

The loan has given him the platform he wanted.

He plays freely, grows in confidence each week and shows why Arbroath acted quickly to secure his services.

The club values his physicality, discipline and positional awareness, and he continues to justify his place in the starting XI.

Kabongolo wants to maintain this momentum through the remainder of the season.

He knows a strong spell at Arbroath could reshape his future at Livingston, where he remains under contract until 2027.

The 21-year-old spent the early part of his development at Ipswich Town, and he now uses this loan spell to prove he can compete at a higher level.

Since his arrival, he has already played seven matches for Arbroath, a complete contrast to his situation at Livingston, where he did not feature at all before the move.

The loan gives him the opportunity to rebuild rhythm, regain sharpness and aim for a return to Livingston with a stronger case for inclusion in the first team.