Overview
- San Diego FC announced the signing of Cédric Bakambu on a contract through the 2026 MLS season with club options for 2027 and 2027–28, and sporting director Tyler Heaps praised his experience and goal scoring.
- Bakambu is 35 and arrived as a free agent after two seasons with Real Betis; he started three matches for DR Congo at the 2026 World Cup as the team reached the Round of 32.
- Across sources, Bakambu is credited with 191 career goals, but outlets report differing assist totals — one lists 39 assists and another 49 — a minor statistical discrepancy in otherwise consistent career tallies.
- He joins a San Diego attack that includes Designated Player wingers Anders Dreyer and Elias Achouri plus striker Marcus Ingvartsen, and the club expects Bakambu to provide immediate finishing and leadership as it chases the playoffs.
- The move follows a common MLS pattern of signing an experienced veteran on a short-term deal with options, a choice that could speed San Diego’s on-field impact and shape late-season roster and designated-player decisions.