Stars in Europe - Switzerland - Talents - Transfer - Manzambi's rapid rise
The Details
Johan Manzambi is in the conversation for the best young player in the world award, alongside Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Real Madrid’s Yan Diomandé and new Manchester City midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The Swiss star scored three goals in four games at the World Cup before a knee injury ended his tournament, only a year after his full international debut.
The Rise
A rapid ascent for a player who used to return to Freiburg’s academy to do his washing. Bernhard Weis, who gave Manzambi his debut for the Freiburg Under 19s, remembered it well: “He is playing for the professionals and he comes to us at the academy and brings some dirty clothes. He didn’t have a washing machine, so he comes here and washes some clothes.”
The Character
Weis also recalled how Manzambi would pick up youngsters from the Under 13s and Under 14s and walk them to the train station so they could get home. “That’s Johan Manzambi,” he said.
The Surprise
Even those closest to him did not see this coming. “I saw something for the first team, for us, but this way, no chance,” said Weis. The first six months at Freiburg were not easy, as Manzambi was not strong or stable enough. He put on five kilos, decided it was the right moment, and came back faster and stronger.
The Verdict
Massimo Lombardo, Servette’s academy director, first worked with Manzambi at 15 and oversaw his development before the move to Freiburg at 17 in 2023. “It is a real surprise for many people, that he can do something special so quickly,” he said. “For me, the difference he can make is because of his mentality, personality, enthusiasm and courage. He has the technical skills and tactical skills and the physical ability now to perform in England.”
The Closer
From borrowing a washing machine to a seat among the world’s best young players. Manzambi’s story is only getting started.
England
Switzerland