Johan Manzambi is leaving SC Freiburg and moving to Aston Villa, the Bundesliga club announced on Friday.
Manzambi joined the Sport-Club in January 2023 from Servette Geneva, initially playing for Freiburg’s U19 and U23 squads. Before the 2024/25 season, the midfielder was brought into the Bundesliga first team roster, making his professional debut in September 2024 during a 3-0 victory against Heidenheim. His first Bundesliga goal came in April 2025, scoring in the 90th minute during a 2-1 away win against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Since then, the 20-year-old has featured in 58 competitive matches for Freiburg across the Bundesliga, Europa League, and DFB Pokal, contributing nine goals and setting up eleven assists.
On June 2025, Manzambi debuted for the Swiss national team and has since made 16 appearances for the national side. He scored three of his six goals for Switzerland at the 2026 World Cup.
Jochen Saier, a board member of SC Freiburg, commented on the move: “The journey from the U19 team to the Europa League finale was special for both Johan and us. After truly intensive discussions and negotiations in recent weeks, both parties benefit from this agreed-upon solution.” Saier added, “Johan’s performances in the SC jersey were exceptional; he significantly shaped our game. We thank everyone who supported and guided Johan during his three and a half years at Freiburg, and we wish him all the very best for his future.”
