SC Freiburg would have liked to keep the gifted midfielder for another season but his World Cup performances, in which he delivered 3 goals and 2 assists in 4 games, made that dream impossible.

Photo: Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images.

Aston Villa have officially announced the signing of Johan Manzambi from Bundesliga side SC Freiburg this evening, Friday 17 July.

The 20-year-old, who just represented Switzerland at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, joins on a permanent transfer from SC Freiburg.

Considered one of Europe’s brightest prospects, Manzambi was key to the Breisgau side’s run to the UEFA Europa League final last term.

Despite defeat to Aston Villa in the end, the creative midfielder was named the Europa League’s Young Player of the Season.

“The shared journey from the U-19s to the Europa League final was special for both Johan and us,” said sporting director Jochen Saier.

"After truly intensive talks and negotiations [with Aston Villa] in recent weeks, both sides benefit from the solution found.”

For Freiburg, the €70million fee is a club record – one previously held by both Kevin Schade and Merlin Röhl who cost €25million each.