Willy Kambwala joins Como as France and DR Congo defender arrives from Villarreal

France and DR Congo defender Willy Kambwala has joined Como from Villarreal on loan, bringing the 22-year-old centre-back to Serie A until 30 June 2027.

Kambwala’s move to Italy follows two seasons with Villarreal, who signed him from Manchester United for €10m in July 2024. The defender had not made an appearance for Villarreal in La Liga this season before completing his switch to Como.

The 1.92m right-footed centre-back began his senior career at Manchester United after progressing through the English club’s academy. He moved from Manchester United’s Under-21 side into the first team in January 2024, before leaving for Villarreal six months later.

Kambwala was part of Manchester United’s FA Cup-winning squad in 2024 and also won the English FA Youth Cup with the club’s Under-18 side during the 2021-22 campaign.

Born in Kinshasa, Kambwala has French and DR Congo nationality. His arrival gives Como another option in central defence as the club prepare for their Serie A campaign. The transfer also represents a return to senior football in a new league after his time in Spain.

Como have taken the defender on a temporary basis, with the agreement scheduled to conclude at the end of June 2027. No permanent transfer fee has been attached to the move, which leaves Kambwala contracted to Villarreal beyond his spell in Italy.

The defender joined Manchester United’s youth system from Sochaux in October 2020, having previously developed in France with CO Les Ulis and Sochaux’s academy teams. His move to England came before his progression through United’s Under-18 and Under-21 sides.

Kambwala’s market value is listed at €3m, while his highest recorded valuation was €5m. He now joins a Como side competing in Italy’s top flight, after making the switch from a Villarreal team operating in La Liga.

The completed loan places Kambwala at Como through 30 June 2027, when he is scheduled to return to Villarreal.