MLS: The incredible story that led Cédric Bakambu to leave San Diego!

  Cédric Bakambu's American adventure has taken an unexpected and regrettable turn. Having arrived at San Diego FC last September, the Congolese international striker has decided to end his time in California after just nine matches. The reason? Difficulties finding housing for his family, amid alleged housing discrimination.

Cédric Bakambu's time in Major League Soccer (MLS) was particularly brief. Yet, on the pitch, the former Olympique de Marseille player had a successful debut with San Diego. In nine appearances, he scored five goals and provided three assists, posting impressive statistics.

But behind this sporting success lay a particularly complicated personal situation. In a message published to announce his departure, the 35-year-old player left the reasons for his decision unclear. "I would have sincerely liked to continue this adventure, but some decisions are beyond our control," he explained.

According to ESPN, the separation is linked to housing problems encountered by the striker and his family. Faced with what he considers acts of discrimination, Bakambu has decided to take legal action in the United States. His lawsuit targets a real estate agency, two landlords, and two real estate agents.

Two refusals to rent at the heart of the case

According to the complaint reviewed by ESPN, Cédric Bakambu and his wife, Anne-Laure Hueber, were allegedly victims of discrimination based on their family situation. They were reportedly refused rental properties because of the presence of their children in the household.

The file details two separate incidents. In the first case, the couple reportedly offered to pay for the installation of a safety barrier around the pool to protect the children. They also allegedly offered to pay a full year's rent in advance. Despite these guarantees, their application was reportedly rejected, and the property was subsequently taken off the market.

The second incident involves another property listed at $20,000 per month in rent. The Bakambu family reportedly made a higher offer of $23,500 per month. Again, their offer was rejected, and the property was taken off the market a few days later.

A situation with serious consequences for the family

In his complaint, the Congolese international describes the impact of these difficulties on his family life. The document specifically mentions the loss of housing opportunities, additional expenses, prolonged residential instability, and disruptions to the children's schooling and activities. The family also claims to have suffered humiliation and significant emotional distress.

Faced with this situation, the player finally chose to end his American experience, despite a promising start to his sporting career.

So far, neither MLS nor the San Diego club has wished to comment publicly on this matter. Cédric Bakambu, for his part, has officially announced his departure, leaving behind an adventure that could have been a great sporting success, but which was abruptly cut short by off-field difficulties.