Manzambi continues to light up World Cup stage as Switzerland march on

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder had already turned heads with his three goals during the group phase, but his reputation only grew in the round of 32.

It started early. The direct running he is now famous for was on show as he tore down the left of a stricken Algerian defence. Beating two, before getting to the byline, he still had the presence of mind to pick out Breel Embolo, who did the rest.

Much like the best talents in the world, every time he received the ball on the half turn, the stadium took a breath as he powered his way upfield. His dribbling style languid, his pace dazzling, his touch still needs finessing, but the signs are there that Manzambi could be the next Swiss hope.

On the night, playing as a 10, he would drift into half spaces between the full back and the centre back to receive the ball, showing an intelligent, thoughtful side of his game. In the first half, as Switzerland were containing the Algerian attack, he rushed into the space vacated by Rafik Belghali, calling for the ball to be played early as he held his run inside his own half.

The ball didn’t come, but the vision was clear to see.

Before the game, it was he who was being talked about. The cat was already out of the bag, but the Algerians were powerless to stop him.

Interest grows in Swiss star

His club form with Freiburg earned him the Europa League Young Player of the Year accolade as they made the final, only to be beaten comprehensively by Aston Villa in Istanbul, and it feels like that may be his final game for the Bundesliga side.

Interest is growing in Manzambi, with Newcastle United already rumoured to be interested in signing him for around 50 million euros. They’ll need to be quick, as a disorderly queue could be forming very soon.

Back to Vancouver, and he was removed in the 71st minute to warm applause, gaining a 7.3 rating from Flashscore, much down to his skill on the ball.

At the time of his change, he had the most touches in the opposition box of any player and completed the most successful dribbles. 

Others did the hard yards. Dan Ndoye scored with a fine finish from the edge of the box, whilst Ruben Vargas was industrious on the win, and Manuel Akanji marshalled the defence with ease.

In truth, Manzambi was the difference maker who took the Swiss into the last 16.

They will now face either Ghana or Colombia back in Vancouver on July 7th, another test for Manzambi, and one you would think he will pass with flying colours.

Sponsored content

Watch the World Cup 2026 live on ITVX via Prime Video here - live coverage, highlights, and analysis.