Club Brugge Bolsters Attack with Carlos Forbs Acquisition from Ajax

Club Brugge is asserting its dominance in the Belgian Pro League by aggressively strengthening its roster, a strategy highlighted by the high-profile acquisition of Portuguese winger Carlos Forbs from Ajax. The move signals a clear intent to upgrade the squad’s creative depth and pace on the flanks as the club navigates a demanding season.

The transfer of the 21-year-old winger was finalized after Ajax and Club Brugge reached an agreement, ending Forbs’ tenure with the Dutch giants where he had been under contract until June 30, 2028. For Brugge, securing a player with Forbs’ pedigree and international experience provides a tactical edge in a league where explosive wing play often decides tight contests.

The Journey to Bruges: From Manchester City to the Pro League

Carlos Roberto Forbs Borges has followed a trajectory common among Europe’s elite young talents, spending his formative years in some of the most prestigious academies on the continent. Born in Sintra, Portugal, Forbs had a brief spell at Sporting CP before moving to England at age 11. His potential quickly caught the attention of scouts, leading him to join the Manchester City academy in 2015.

During his time in Manchester, Forbs established himself as a consistent threat, contributing a steady stream of goals and assists for City’s under-18 and under-23 sides. His development peaked in May 2021, when he was named the under-18 player of the season for the club. This foundation in the English system—characterized by high intensity and technical precision—prepared him for the transition to senior football in the Eredivisie and later the Belgian Pro League.

Forbs’ path to Belgium was not linear. After moving to Ajax in 2023, he spent time with Jong Ajax and underwent a loan spell with Wolverhampton Wanderers during the 2024-2025 campaign. While the loan to Wolves served as a test of his adaptability in the English top flight, it was his eventual permanent move to Club Brugge that provided the stability needed to integrate into a first-team starting rotation.

Immediate Impact and Statistical Footprint

Since arriving at Club Brugge, Forbs has become a regular fixture in the lineup. As of March 22, 2026, the Portuguese winger has made 26 appearances for the Belgian side, netting three goals. While the goal tally is modest, his primary value lies in his ability to stretch defenses and create space for teammates, leveraging the 1.69m frame and agility that made him a standout in the youth ranks.

His integration has also coincided with his rise in the Portuguese national team setup. Having progressed through the U16, U18, and U19 levels—including a runner-up finish at the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship in Malta—Forbs earned his first senior cap for Portugal in 2025. This international exposure adds a layer of maturity and confidence to his game that benefits the entire Brugge attacking unit.

For those following the tactical evolution of the Belgian Pro League, the addition of Forbs represents more than just a personnel change; it is a shift toward a more dynamic, transition-based offense. By poaching a talent from a club like Ajax, Brugge is demonstrating an ability to compete for the same profile of players typically reserved for the biggest clubs in Europe.

Analyzing the Strategic Shift

The decision to target Forbs following his stint with Wolves shows a calculated approach by the Brugge front office. Rather than searching for established veterans, the club is investing in high-ceiling youth who have already experienced the pressures of elite environments. This strategy allows the club to build a squad that is not only competitive in the present but possesses significant resale value and long-term growth potential.

The synergy between Forbs’ playing style and the Belgian league’s openness often results in high-frequency attacking sequences. His ability to operate as a traditional winger or cut inside to create opportunities makes him a versatile tool for the coaching staff, especially when facing low-block defenses that typically struggle with high-paced wingers.

As Club Brugge continues to refine its roster, the focus remains on maintaining this momentum. The club’s ability to attract international talent and integrate them quickly into the first team has set a high bar for its domestic rivals.

The next critical checkpoint for the club will be the upcoming fixtures in the Belgian Pro League, where Forbs’ ability to deliver in high-stakes matches will be further tested. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to spot if the Portuguese winger can evolve from a reliable contributor into a primary match-winner.

Join the conversation: Do you think Carlos Forbs is the missing piece for Club Brugge’s title ambitions? Let us know in the comments below.