English Premier League
Al-Diriyah sign DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba after Ronaldo World Cup battle
Al-Diriyah have signed Democratic Republic of the Congo captain Chancel Mbemba on a free transfer, making the defender their sixth arrival of the summer transfer window after his performance against Cristiano Ronaldo at the 2026 World Cup.
The Saudi club, who have recently been promoted to the Roshn Saudi League, announced the deal on their official account on X. Mbemba joins after his contract with Lille expired at the end of last season, following a single campaign with the French side.
The 32-year-old brings extensive experience from European football. He represented Anderlecht between 2013 and 2015 before moving to Newcastle United, where he remained until joining Porto in 2018. Mbemba then transferred to Marseille in 2022 before spending last season with Lille.
His most significant achievements have come at international level with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mbemba made his debut for the national team in 2012 and has since won 111 caps, scoring seven goals.
Mbemba was one of the leading figures in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s historic campaign at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament marked the country’s first appearance at the World Cup, and Mbemba helped his side reach the round of 32.
The defender played a key role in the group stage, where the Democratic Republic of the Congo faced Portugal in their opening match. Mbemba helped keep Ronaldo under control as the game ended in a 1-1 draw, with the Al-Nassr captain unable to find the net.
He also impressed in the meeting with England in the round of 32. Mbemba produced a strong defensive display and created the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s opening goal, although England eventually won 2-1.
That World Cup showing, particularly his duel with Ronaldo, helped underline the experience and leadership Al-Diriyah hope he can bring to their squad. The club are preparing for their first-ever season in the Roshn Saudi League and are looking to assemble a team capable of competing at the highest level while avoiding relegation.
Mbemba is the latest addition to a recruitment drive that has already brought six players to Al-Diriyah during the current summer window. The other arrivals are Bosnian goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, Qasim Lajami, Hattan Bahebri, Saad Al-Rubaie and Amin Al-Bukhari.
Al-Diriyah’s promotion represents a landmark moment in the club’s history, with the capital-based side now set to compete in the Saudi top flight for the first time. Their priority will be to build enough strength and depth to cope with the demands of the Roshn Saudi League, and Mbemba’s arrival gives them an experienced international leader in defence.