DR Congo star Cédric Bakambu joins MLS outfit San Diego FC

DR Congo international Cédric Bakambu has left European football behind and is set to begin a new chapter in the United States after joining Major League Soccer side San Diego FC.

The 35-year-old striker became a free agent following his departure from Real Betis this summer after the expiry of his contract and has now agreed to continue his career in the MLS.

Bakambu has signed a contract covering the 2026 MLS season, with options included for the 2027 and 2027–2028 seasons, giving him the possibility of remaining in the United States beyond his initial deal.

The move will see the experienced forward play in his sixth different league after previously featuring in France, Spain, China, Greece and Turkey.

Bakambu arrives at San Diego FC with considerable experience at both domestic and international level. During his career, he has played in some of Europe’s major competitions and represented clubs in Ligue 1, La Liga, the Turkish Super Lig and the Greek Super League.

His career has also included a lengthy spell in China, where he spent four seasons before returning to European football.

Real Betis was his most recent European club, with the Congolese striker spending time in Spain before his contract expired at the end of the 2025/2026 campaign.

Now, Bakambu will turn his attention to the MLS, where he is expected to bring his experience, goalscoring ability and international pedigree to San Diego FC.

For the veteran forward, the move represents an opportunity to experience a new footballing environment while continuing his career at the highest level.

Bakambu remains an important figure for DR Congo and will also be hoping that regular football in the United States can help him maintain his sharpness at international level.

After a career that has taken him across Europe and Asia, the experienced striker is now ready for his latest adventure as he begins his MLS journey with San Diego FC.