Persib Bandung officially introduced two new players, French defender Layvin Kurzawa and Dutch-Indonesian Dion Markx, after a 1-0 win over PSBS Biak on January 25, 2026. The unveiling took place at Stadion Gelora Bandung Lautan Api, marking the defending Super League champions' strategic move to bolster the squad for the second round. Management emphasized the signings are driven by technical and tactical needs.
Persib Bandung defeated PSBS Biak 1-0 in the opening match of the second round of the Super League 2025/2026 at Stadion Gelora Bandung Lautan Api on Sunday night, January 25, 2026. Following the game, the club introduced Layvin Kurzawa and Dion Markx as new signings in the winter transfer window.
Deputy CEO of PT Persib Bandung Bermartabat, Adhitia Putra Herawan, explained that Kurzawa's recruitment is based on the team's concrete needs, not just his big name. "The club needs players who not only have technical quality but also flexibility, experience, and mature tactical understanding. This is where Kurzawa fits," Adhitia stated.
Kurzawa, born in Fréjus, France, on September 4, 1992, is a versatile defender who has played for AS Monaco, Paris Saint-Germain (2015-2024), Fulham, and Boavista, as well as the France national team (2014-2019). He can play left back, left wing, or center back, with skills in crossing and attacking transitions. His contract runs until the end of the season with an extension option, recommended by coach Bojan Hodak for squad depth.
Meanwhile, Dion Markx, born in Nijmegen, Netherlands, on June 29, 2005, was signed to a 2.5-year contract. The young center back has played for TOP Oss (Dutch Division II) and academies of Vitesse Arnhem and NEC Nijmegen. He has also represented Indonesia's U20 and U23 teams. "Coach Bojan Hodak recommended adding players to the defense. Dion is a young player with European experience and national team background," Adhitia said.
Kurzawa described his move as entirely his own decision. "This is purely my decision. Persib is the best choice for me and my career," he said. He is excited after vacationing in Indonesia in 2018. PSG responded with a social media post in Sundanese: "Baheula di Paris, ayeuna di Paris Van Java. Wilujeng Sumping di Bandung Aa Kurzawa."
Their arrivals support Persib's ambitions to defend the Super League title—currently leading with 41 points—and advance in the AFC Champions League Two. Persib now completes its list of top European players like Michael Essien and Federico Barba.
