Persib Strengthens Defense with the Signing of Experienced French Center-Back Gabriel Mutombo

Persib Bandung has officially introduced French defender Gabriel Mutombo as the club's first signing ahead of the 2026/27 season. The experienced center-back arrives to reinforce one of the team's most important positions and is expected to strengthen the defensive line after the departure of Federico Barba.

The announcement was revealed through a unique collaboration with the Bike to Work community. Club executives joined a cycling event from Siliwangi Stadium to Graha Persib, where the unveiling concluded with the presentation of a jersey bearing Mutombo's name, confirming his arrival as the club's newest player.

According to Persib's management, the transfer was initiated following a recommendation from the coaching staff, who identified Mutombo as the ideal candidate to fill the vacant center-back role. The sporting department then completed negotiations successfully, allowing the club to finalize the deal before the start of the new campaign.

Mutombo is already familiar with Persib after facing the Indonesian side while playing for Ratchaburi FC in the 2025/26 AFC Champions League Two Round of 16. During that tie, the French defender scored in Ratchaburi's 3-0 home victory, helping eliminate Persib with a 3-1 aggregate score.

The 30-year-old has signed a one-year contract and brings valuable experience from clubs across Europe and Asia, including Olympique Lyon, Angers, Troyes, and FC Botoșani. Persib believes his background at both domestic and international levels will allow him to adapt quickly and make an immediate impact as the team prepares for the upcoming season.