Bengaluru FC have completed the signing of Dutch centre-back Menno Koch ahead of the 2026–27 Indian Super League season. The 32-year-old defender joins the Blues after playing for Sarpsborg 08 FF in Norway’s top division, the Eliteserien.
A graduate of the PSV Eindhoven academy, Koch brings considerable European football experience to Bengaluru FC. His arrival strengthens the club’s defence as head coach Pep Muñoz prepares the squad for the new ISL campaign.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Menno Koch |
| Nationality | Dutch |
| Age | 32 |
| Position | Centre-back |
| New club | Bengaluru FC |
| Previous club | Sarpsborg 08 FF |
| Joining ahead of | 2026–27 Indian Super League season |
| Former clubs | PSV Eindhoven, NAC Breda, FC Utrecht, KAS Eupen and CSKA Sofia |
| Bengaluru FC signing number | Fifth addition to the squad |
Menno Koch Brings European Experience to Bengaluru FC
Koch developed through the renowned youth system at PSV Eindhoven before beginning his senior career with the Dutch club in 2012.
During his career, the centre-back has represented NAC Breda and FC Utrecht in the Netherlands, KAS Eupen in Belgium, CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria and Sarpsborg 08 FF in Norway.
His career across several European leagues has given him experience of different footballing styles and competitive environments. He has also shared the field with or competed against prominent Dutch players such as Robin van Persie, Cody Gakpo and Steven Bergwijn.
Bengaluru FC expect Koch to bring physical strength, composure, passing ability and tactical intelligence to their defensive unit.
Pep Muñoz Explains What Koch Adds to the Squad
Bengaluru FC head coach Pep Muñoz welcomed the defender and highlighted the qualities that made him suitable for the team.
“Menno brings a lot of experience playing in the top divisions of Europe. He’s a strong and physical player who has a good passing range and suits the type of identity we want to build here at the club,” Muñoz said.
“I’m glad that he’s joining us in Bengaluru, and we cannot wait to welcome him,” the head coach added.
Koch’s ability to contribute to the team’s build-up play, along with his defensive strength, is expected to complement the footballing identity Muñoz wants to establish at Bengaluru FC.
Menno Koch Excited About His New Challenge in India
Koch said conversations with the coaching staff and club management convinced him that Bengaluru FC was the right destination for the next stage of his career.
“From my very first conversation with the coach and the management, I decided that this would be the best step for my career. The club has a clear vision for the future, and I want to contribute to building it,” Koch said.
“I’m here to take up this new challenge in India, work hard and give absolutely everything for the shirt,” he added.
The move will introduce Koch to Indian football as Bengaluru FC look to compete strongly during the forthcoming ISL season.
Fifth New Addition to Bengaluru FC
Menno Koch becomes Bengaluru FC’s fifth addition ahead of the 2026–27 campaign.
The club previously strengthened its squad by signing Spanish midfielder Borja Martínez, Portuguese centre-back Sandro Embaló, Argentine midfielder Manuel de Iriondo and Montenegrin striker Mihailo Perović.
The additions give Bengaluru FC greater international experience across defence, midfield and attack. Koch and Embaló provide the club with two new options at centre-back.
About Bengaluru FC
Bengaluru FC, commonly known as BFC, was founded by the JSW Group in 2013. The club was established to build a professional football team in Bengaluru while helping develop a wider football culture across the city, Karnataka and India.
The club’s achievements include two I-League titles and an Indian Super League championship. Bengaluru FC also became the first Indian club to reach the AFC Cup final.
The Sree Kanteerava Stadium serves as the club’s home ground. Bengaluru FC also works on grassroots development and supporting local football talent.
Its fan community includes the West Block Blues, whose support has become closely associated with the club’s home matches and identity.
