FC Cincinnati Secures Rising Star Kenji Mboma Dem with First Team Contract through 2025
July 5, 2025
FC Cincinnati announced the signing of Kenji Mboma Dem, a 2024 MLS SuperDraft pick, to a first team contract through 2025, with options for two additional seasons.
The 23-year-old forward was drafted in the second round as the 56th overall pick, having previously played college soccer at the University of Dayton and the University of Nebraska Omaha.
Mboma Dem made his first team debut on February 26, 2025, during the Concacaf Champions Cup against FC Motagua, and his MLS Regular Season debut followed on March 1 against the Philadelphia Union.
As of July 2025, he has made six appearances in the current season, scoring three goals and assisting twice, sharing the team lead in goals.
During his time with FC Cincinnati 2, he has made 26 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists over two seasons.
In his first season with FC Cincinnati 2, he scored seven goals and provided five assists in 18 matches, leading the team in total goal contributions.
Originally from Mantes-la-Jolie, France, Mboma Dem scored nine goals and three assists in 15 matches during his final season at the University of Dayton in 2023.
General Manager Chris Albright expressed pride in signing Mboma Dem to the first team, highlighting his consistency and performance in training and games as key factors in his promotion.
As part of the roster, Mboma Dem will occupy a Supplemental Roster and International Roster Spot.
On the evening of July 5, 2025, FC Cincinnati will play against Chicago Fire FC at TQL Stadium.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

mlssoccer • Jul 5, 2025
FC Cincinnati sign forward Kenji Mboma Dem
Cincinnati Enquirer • Jul 5, 2025
FC Cincinnati signs Kenji Mboma Dem to first team contract
Spectrum News 1 Ohio • Jul 5, 2025
FC Cincinnati signs Kenji Mboma Dem to contract
FC Cincinnati • Jul 5, 2025
FC Cincinnati sign forward Kenji Mboma Dem