AFCON Star Leaves Norwegian Champions For €8 million

23-year-old Faris Moumbagna is currently on AFCON duty with Cameroon, but it hasn’t stopped him sealing an €8 million (£6.85 million) move to Ligue 1 side Marseille.

Moumbagna, who has played twice in the tournament, has been one of the breakout stars of Bodø/Glimt’s 2023 season, one which saw them qualify from their Europa Conference League group. They won the Norwegian title, powered by the goals of Moumbagna.

He’s penned a four-and-a-half-year deal with Marseille, as announced by their official website – “Olympique de Marseille have announced the signing of Faris Moumbagna from FK Bodø/Glimt. The striker has signed a contract lasting until June 2028 after passing his medical.”

Moumbagna started his career in the United States with Montverde Academy, before a move to USL side Bethlehem Steels. After 14 goals in 40 matches, he caught the eye of Norway’s Kristiansund BK, where he penned a three-year deal to play in Eliteserien. After 49 appearances and nine top-flight goals, he made a loan move to Sønderjyske in the Danish Super League.

2023 has really been his year. He joined Bodø/Glimt at the start of the season, and played a vital role in their title charge, scoring 15 times to help secure their third title in four seasons. He was also active in Europe, scoring six times in 14 matches, including a brace as his side beat Besiktas 2-1 in November.

That form caught the eye of Marseille, who moved for the striker and confirmed the deal despite him being on international duty. Despite having only played twice for his nation prior to the tournament kicking off, he was named in the 23-man squad for AFCON 2023 and has appeared twice so far, both as a sub.

Site Opinion

Remember the name. This young man has had an unconventional route to one of Europe’s elite divisions, but his departure from Den Gule Horde will certainly be felt. His goals have been crucial this season, but it was becoming apparent he was outgroing Norway.

Ligue 1 isn’t easy, and he now has a price tag on his head, but there’s every expectation that he’ll be a success. He has the right attributes for European football, and his quick ascension to international football demonstrates his growing potential.