Cedric Bakambu leaves San Diego FC after just two months

Cedric Bakambu has become a free agent just two months after joining San Diego FC, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo international admitting his departure was caused by “things beyond my control”.

The striker, recalled to the national team for the current international break, had appeared to settle in well in the United States. However, his spell with the California-based franchise has ended after only nine appearances, including four starts.

Bakambu joined San Diego FC from Real Betis on 3 September. Despite the brevity of his time at the club, he made a significant contribution, scoring five goals and providing three assists.

That return was not enough to secure his future. In a farewell message, Bakambu made clear that he had wanted to remain with San Diego FC but did not explain the circumstances behind the early termination of his contract.

The 35-year-old also thanked his team-mates, coaching staff and supporters for their welcome and backing. Questions about his position at the club had already emerged after he was left out of San Diego FC’s most recent match.

Bakambu had initially been due to remain under contract until the end of the 2026 season, with options allowing that agreement to be extended. Instead, he leaves a side struggling in 13th place in the Western Conference, a considerable distance from the top position San Diego FC secured during its inaugural season in the American top flight.

The forward, who will turn 36 in the coming months, must now search for another club. His career has taken him to France, Spain, Turkey, Greece and the United States, with his latest move having brought a short but productive spell in MLS.

That period gave Bakambu the chance to regain both his sharpness and match rhythm before returning to international duty.

He has been recalled by Sebastien Desabre for the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s double-header against Sierra Leone. Bakambu is one goal away from matching Dieumerci Mbokani’s record of 22 goals for the national team, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer.

The international break therefore offers Bakambu an immediate opportunity to demonstrate that he remains capable of making an impact, while moving closer to a landmark in Congolese football.