The Lion City Sailors are delighted to announce the signing of former French Ligue 1 forward Matthias Phaëton from Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia, as the club continues to strengthen its squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The 26-year-old has signed a three-year contract and arrives in Singapore with a reputation for explosive pace, direct attacking play, and clinical finishing — qualities that will add another dimension to the Sailors’ frontline as the club prepares for a demanding campaign across domestic and continental competitions.
Notably, Matthias turned down an offer from Turkish side Bursaspor in favour of joining the Sailors, underlining his belief in the club’s vision and ambitions.
“From the first conversations with the Sailors, I could feel the ambition and the project they are building here,” said Matthias. “The club has big dreams and is doing everything possible to push the boundaries and take football in this country to the next level. It’s a challenge that really interests me, and I’m excited to create history in Singapore.”
Matthias spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Swiss Super League side FC Zürich, where he impressed with eight goals in 27 appearances. Before joining CSKA Sofia in 2023, he established himself in France, making close to 90 appearances in Ligue 2, while also featuring four times in Ligue 1 for Guingamp.
On the international stage, Matthias has earned 34 caps and scored 12 goals for Guadeloupe, representing and scoring for the Caribbean nation at three editions of the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Earlier in his career, he also represented France at Under-17 level, highlighting the pedigree that has shaped his development.
Comfortable playing both on the left wing and as a central striker, the 1.85m Matthias provides the Sailors with greater attacking versatility, while adding speed, physicality and a proven goal threat in the final third.
“Matthias is a player we’ve been following closely, and we’re delighted that he has decided to join us despite receiving other offers from Europe,” said Sailors Head Coach Jesús Casas. “He brings valuable experience from European football and key qualities to the style of play we want to build.
“Most importantly, he has the ambition and determination to contribute to what we’re building here. We believe he’ll settle in well to life in Singapore and make a real impact in our attack.”
Matthias is relishing the challenge ahead as the Sailors target improved performances in the AFC Champions League Two and ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup.
“I know the expectations at this club are very high. We have to go out and try to win every game, while also producing strong performances in Asian competitions,” he said. “I enjoy that kind of challenge, and I’ll do everything I can to help take this club to another level in the region.”
