Bayern Munich Signs 18-Year-Old American Midfielder Bajung Darboe

MUNICH, Germany — Bayern Munich has officially signed 18-year-old American attacking midfielder Bajung Darboe from Los Angeles FC (LAFC), the German club announced Wednesday. Darboe, who has signed a long-term contract, will join Bayern’s reserve team as part of the club’s youth development program.

“A big dream has come true for me. It’s nice to see where my path has taken me,” Darboe said in a statement. “It was always a big wish of mine to get to pull on the shirt of this great club one day. The fact it’s happened now fills me with a lot of pride.”

Born in Gambia, Darboe has represented the U.S. under-17 national team twice. At the club level, he has played for the reserve teams of LAFC, with whom Bayern Munich has a strategic partnership under the Red&Gold Football brand. The collaboration focuses on developing young talent, making Darboe’s transfer a natural progression.

Jochen Sauer, Bayern Munich’s director of youth development and campus, expressed his enthusiasm about the signing. “We have known Bajung for some time and have already had him for a trial training session with us in Munich. We are delighted that he is now joining us permanently and wants to establish himself in European football through our amateurs,” Sauer said. He also thanked LAFC for their cooperation in the transfer.

Darboe highlighted the global appeal of Bayern Munich, particularly for American players. “The club has big appeal all over the world, including in the USA. Since a few US players like Chris Richards, Malik Tillman, and Taylor Booth have played here in the past, FC Bayern enjoys a very high reputation,” he remarked.

Darboe is set to play for Bayern’s regional league team under head coach Holger Seitz. The young midfielder acknowledged the challenges ahead, including adjusting to a new environment. “I’m still battling jet lag but otherwise I feel good and ready to get started,” he said.

Bayern Munich’s partnership with LAFC has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing young talent. The Red&Gold Football initiative aims to bridge the gap between American and European football, providing opportunities for players like Darboe to make the leap to top-tier clubs.

Darboe’s signing underscores Bayern Munich’s commitment to building a strong foundation for the future. As he prepares to join the regional league team, all eyes will be on the young midfielder to see how he adapts to European football and contributes to Bayern’s storied legacy.