FC Metz have confirmed the signing of Ivorian midfielder Jean-Philippe Gbamin on a two-year contract, as the club continues its summer rebuild ahead of the new season.
The 28-year-old joins the Ligue 2 side on a free transfer following his departure from FC Zurich, becoming the Grenats’ third major acquisition of the window.
His contract will keep him at Stade Saint-Symphorien until June 2026.
Gbamin, a versatile and physically imposing midfielder, brings a wealth of experience to the Lorraine outfit.
With a career that has taken him through top-flight football in France, Germany, England, and Switzerland, the Ivorian is expected to add steel and composure to a midfield unit in need of reinforcement.
Jean-Philippe Gbamin brings invaluable experience and a strong presence in the heart of the pitch, read a statement from the club. His arrival strengthens our core and aligns perfectly with the club’s ambitions for the coming seasons.
Known for his tenacity, tactical awareness, and ball-winning ability, Gbamin will be tasked with anchoring Metz’s midfield and offering stability in both defensive and transitional phases of play.
His capacity to read the game and shield the backline will be key as Metz aim to bounce back from a challenging campaign.
This move also represents a fresh start for Gbamin, whose career has been disrupted by a string of injuries during his time at Everton.
After promising early years with Lens and then Mainz in the Bundesliga, his move to the Premier League in 2019 was hampered by fitness issues, limiting his appearances.
A loan spell at Trabzonspor followed before he signed for Zurich last season.
Now back in familiar territory, the midfielder is eager to re-establish himself in French football and help lead Metz to greater heights.
I’m happy to return to France and join a club like FC Metz, Gbamin said. It’s a good project and I’m here to work hard, give everything, and support the team with my experience.
Metz, relegated from Ligue 1 last season, are rebuilding with a clear objective: promotion. The signing of Gbamin is seen as a statement of intent, reinforcing both the squad’s quality and depth.
With pre-season preparations underway, Gbamin is expected to quickly integrate into Laszlo Bölöni’s system and play a central role in Metz’s campaign when the new Ligue 2 season kicks off.
