Bubacarr Marong: Gambia defender joins Favara as a free agent

Gambia centre-back Bubacarr Marong has joined Italian side Favara as a free agent, signing a contract that runs until 30 June 2027.

The 26-year-old defender completed the move on 26 August and will play for Favara in Serie D – I. Marong becomes part of the club’s defensive options after spending the previous stage of his career in Italian football.

Marong was most recently registered with Taranto, whom he joined from Palermo on a free transfer in August 2024. His time at Taranto ended on 1 July 2025, after which he was without a club before switching to Favara.

The right-footed defender has experience of Serie C, where he made 21 appearances. He also featured four times in the Coppa Serie C, four times in the Serie C play-offs and once in the play-outs. His record includes one goal in 13 Primavera 2 appearances.

Standing 1.90m tall, Marong has spent much of his football career in Italy. He first joined Palermo from Parmonval on a free transfer in August 2019 and later moved to Gelbison on loan in July 2022. The loan ended in June 2023, when he returned to Palermo.

Marong’s move to Taranto followed his return to Palermo, with the centre-back then making another free transfer before spending the next part of his career in the Italian system. His arrival at Favara continues that path, while giving the Gambian defender a new club ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Favara have secured Marong’s services without a transfer fee, and his agreement with the club is in place through the end of June 2027.