Ivorian international Jean-Philippe Gbamin begins new chapter in Bulgaria

Ivorian international Jean-Philippe Gbamin has completed a move to Bulgarian club CSKA Sofia after leaving FC Metz at the end of his contract, bringing his time in France to a close ahead of a new challenge in European football.

According to L’Équipe, the 29-year-old midfielder has agreed a two-year deal with CSKA Sofia after deciding not to extend his stay with Metz. As his contract had expired, he joins the Bulgarian side on a free transfer.

Gbamin was a regular member of the Metz squad during the previous season, making himself an important part of the team’s plans before choosing to continue his career elsewhere.

His departure comes after he was omitted from Ivory Coast’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing him to focus fully on securing his next move during the summer transfer window.

The transfer represents another chapter in a career that has taken the former Lens academy graduate across several European leagues.

After establishing himself in France, Gbamin earned a move to Germany with Mainz, where his performances attracted widespread attention. He later secured a transfer to Premier League side Everton, although his spell in England did not develop as expected.

Now, the experienced midfielder will attempt to relaunch his career in Bulgaria, where he will also have the opportunity to compete in European competition.

CSKA Sofia have qualified for the UEFA Conference League qualifiers, giving Gbamin the chance to add to his continental experience. During his career, he has already made nine appearances in the UEFA Europa League.

His new club are scheduled to begin their European campaign in the first qualifying round against Derry City, with preparations already underway ahead of the tie.

For Gbamin, the move offers both stability and a fresh opportunity to re-establish himself at club level after leaving Metz.

For CSKA Sofia, the arrival of an experienced international adds further quality to the squad as they prepare for domestic and European commitments in the new season.

The transfer also ensures that the Ivorian midfielder remains on the European stage as he looks to write the next chapter of his professional career in Bulgaria.