Al-Diriyah complete sixth summer signing with Chancel Mbemba

Al-Diriyah have signed Democratic Republic of the Congo captain Chancel Mbemba on a free transfer, making the 32-year-old defender their sixth addition of the summer transfer window.

The newly promoted Roshn Saudi League club announced the deal on their official account on X, confirming that Mbemba will join after leaving Lille at the end of last season.

Mbemba spent one season with Lille before becoming a free agent. He brings extensive experience to Al-Diriyah, having represented Anderlecht between 2013 and 2015 before moving to Newcastle United.

The defender remained with Newcastle United until his transfer to Porto in 2018, and later joined Marseille in 2022. His career has also included a long international record with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Mbemba made his international debut in 2012 and has since won 111 caps, scoring seven goals. He is also the captain of the national side.

His most notable recent performances came at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico in June. The tournament was the first in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s history, and Mbemba helped his country reach the round of 32.

During the group stage, Mbemba played a key role in limiting Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo as the two sides drew 1-1. Ronaldo, who leads Al-Nassr, was unable to score in the match.

Mbemba also impressed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s round-of-32 meeting with England. He produced another strong display and created his side’s opening goal, although the African team eventually lost 2-1.

The move to Al-Diriyah gives Mbemba the opportunity to continue his career in Saudi Arabia as the club prepare for their first-ever season in the Roshn Saudi League.

The Saudi Arabian side have already recruited Bosnia and Herzegovina goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, Qasim Lajami, Hattan Bahebri, Saad Al-Rubaie and Amin Al-Bukhari during the current summer window.

Al-Diriyah are aiming to assemble a squad capable of competing in the division and securing their top-flight status. Their promotion represents a landmark moment for the Riyadh-based club, who will be taking part in the competition for the first time in their history.

Mbemba’s arrival adds leadership and international experience to a team being rebuilt ahead of its debut campaign. His defensive record and recent performances against Ronaldo and England were key features of his latest international season, while his free-transfer status has enabled Al-Diriyah to complete another major addition without paying a transfer fee to Lille.