Belgian youth international Jeremy Mbambi has joined STVV on a season-long loan. The 18-year-old defender moves from Italian side Pisa, who purchased him from KAA Gent earlier this summer. Voetbalkrant.com reported the news following the official announcement via STVV's Twitter account on September 3, 2026.

Mbambi, who can play as a left-back or central defender, signed a contract with the Sint-Truiden club. According to the report, STVV beat competition from KV Mechelen, Westerlo and Beveren for his signature. The loan deal includes an option to buy for the Belgian club.

The young Belgian started his career in the youth academies of KV Mechelen and Royal Antwerp FC before moving to KAA Gent. His younger brother Jeoffrey Mbambi is considered a top talent at Club Brugge.

Why did STVV choose Jeremy Mbambi?

STVV CEO Takayuki Tateishi explained the signing of the defender. "We see a lot of potential in Jeremy and believe he has what it takes to develop into an important part of our team," said Tateishi. The Japanese executive emphasized the club's confidence in the player's development.

Mbambi himself also expressed enthusiasm about his move. "I know STVV is a family club where the supporters are close to the team. Those values are very important to me," stated the defender. His words highlight the appeal of the club culture in Sint-Truiden.

The arrival of Mbambi strengthens STVV's defensive options as the club currently sits third in the Jupiler Pro League with twelve points from four matches. The team has won all its games and boasts a goal difference of plus five. You can check the current standings for the latest developments.

How does he fit into the current team?

With seven goals scored and only two conceded in four league matches, STVV has established a solid defensive foundation this season. Adding Mbambi gives manager Peter Maes extra variety in his backline. The young defender's versatility across multiple positions provides tactical flexibility.

His profile as a youth international and his experience in the academies of Mechelen, Antwerp and Gent make him an interesting acquisition. The purchase option gives STVV the possibility to sign the player permanently if he develops well.

The club faces a busy schedule, with an away match against KRC Genk on September 13, 2026 as their next assignment. Genk currently sits seventh in the table. The complete fixtures schedule is available on our site.

What does this mean for his development?

For Mbambi himself, the move to STVV represents an opportunity to gain experience at the highest level in Belgium. After leaving Gent for Italy this summer, he now returns to the Belgian league. A season of regular football in the Jupiler Pro League could accelerate his growth as a professional.

His youth status and the fact he's only eighteen years old make this a logical step in his career. STVV has a reputation for giving young players opportunities and developing them, which was an important consideration for Mbambi.

The defender will need to prove himself in a team with a perfect record. The pressure to maintain the level is present, but also offers an ideal learning environment. View the squad composition on our squad page.

STVV faces KRC Genk at the Cegeka Arena on September 13, 2026.