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Who is Johan Manzambi? All you need to know about Switzerland’s rising World Cup sensation
Priya Nambiar | June 19, 2026 3:15 PM CST

Switzerland’s FIFA World Cup journey is back on course following an emphatic 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Johan Manzambi emerged as the star of the show in Los Angeles, delivering two decisive goals within just 19 minutes after coming off the bench to inspire his nation to a commanding win.

The young midfielder broke the deadlock in Switzerland’s Group B clash with a stunning volley and later sealed the triumph with a composed finish in the 90th minute, ensuring a comfortable result for his side.

At only 20 years of age, Manzambi has become one of the standout figures in Murat Yakin’s squad, having already gained attention as the youngest player in Switzerland’s 26-man World Cup contingent by more than two years.

Known for his high-energy style, versatility, and composure on the ball, Manzambi has earned a reputation as a dynamic all-round midfielder — capable of scoring, creating opportunities, and regaining possession while taking on defenders with confidence.

Born in Geneva to parents of Angolan and DR Congolese heritage, Manzambi’s footballing journey began in Switzerland before he progressed through the youth system at Bundesliga side Freiburg, where he made his first-team breakthrough in 2024.

His rise has gone hand in hand with the tenure of Freiburg head coach Julian Schuster, who narrowly missed out on UEFA Champions League qualification by just two points in his debut season at the helm.

Across his initial two seasons with the German club, Manzambi recorded nine goals and seven assists, playing a vital role as Freiburg — affectionately known as the Breisgau Brazilians — reached the UEFA Europa League final.

He netted their second goal in the semi-final clash against Braga, helping to secure a 4-3 aggregate victory, and produced an impressive performance in the final despite the defeat to Aston Villa.

Manzambi has flourished under Schuster’s management, developing into one of the Bundesliga’s most promising young midfielders.

On the international stage, the Swiss youngster has already made headlines, with five goals in 13 appearances for his country. His brace against Bosnia and Herzegovina cemented his place in history as the youngest substitute ever to score multiple goals in a World Cup match.

Clubs such as Napoli, Chelsea, and Manchester United had previously expressed interest in securing his services, and that list of admirers is only expected to grow after his latest dazzling display in Qatar.


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