Cédric Bakambu’s American adventure has come to an abrupt end after just nine appearances for San Diego FC. The Congolese striker and his family reportedly faced housing discrimination in California, prompting him to file a lawsuit against a real estate agency, two property owners and two agents.
The former Sochaux and Olympique de Marseille forward initially enjoyed a promising spell after joining the MLS club on September 3. He scored five goals and provided three assists in nine matches. However, he announced his departure late last week, expressing regret over the circumstances. “I genuinely would have liked to continue this journey, but some decisions are beyond our control,” he explained. ESPN has since revealed the reasons behind his unexpected exit.
According to the complaint reviewed by ESPN, two separate rental applications from Bakambu and his wife, Anne-Laure Hueber, faced rejection because they had children. In one case, the family offered to install a safety barrier around the swimming pool and pay a full year’s rent in advance.
In another, they proposed $23,500 per month instead of the advertised $20,000, but received no response before the property disappeared from the market. The lawsuit describes the resulting housing difficulties, additional expenses and emotional distress. MLS and San Diego FC declined to comment on the case, while Bakambu has confirmed his departure.
