Chancel Mbemba has secured a move to Saudi Arabia after officially signing for Diriyah SC, the club confirmed on Wednesday, 5 August. The Democratic Republic of the Congo central defender had been without a club since ending his spell with LOSC.
The 31-year-old becomes one of the most experienced players in a Diriyah SC squad preparing for its first season in the Saudi Pro League. The club were promoted to the Saudi top flight for the 2026/27 campaign and have recruited Mbemba to strengthen their defence as they prepare for life among the country’s elite.
Mbemba’s arrival gives Diriyah SC an established international presence at the back. A key figure for the Leopards, he has won 111 caps for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is the captain of his national team.
His experience at the highest level is expected to be important for a side whose immediate objective is to remain in the Saudi Pro League. Diriyah SC are entering a new phase following promotion, while Mbemba is beginning another chapter in his career after becoming a free agent following his departure from LOSC.
The transfer brings the defender to the Middle East after his time with the French club came to an end. Diriyah SC’s announcement completes his search for a new team and gives the promoted side a senior option in central defence.
Mbemba is currently valued at €2m by Transfermarkt. While he was with LOSC, his annual salary was €2,730,000, equivalent to 1,791,000,000 CFA francs.
His career has been marked by a prominent role with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where his 111 international appearances underline his importance to the national side. That background is now being placed at the disposal of Diriyah SC as they prepare to compete in the Saudi Pro League for the first time in the 2026/27 season.
The Saudi club will hope Mbemba’s leadership and international experience can help them negotiate the demands of top-flight football and achieve their ambition of avoiding relegation. For the player, the deal provides an opportunity to continue his career in a new country after leaving LOSC without a contract.
