Latvian vice-champions FC RFS have announced the signing of DR Congo winger Gauthier Mankenda. The 27-year-old previously spent several seasons with their main domestic rivals, Riga FC, and became a free agent after the 2025 season. Mankenda has signed a one-year contract with an option to extend it for an additional year.
The 28-year-old has been playing in Latvia since the summer of 2022, when he joined FK Liepāja after several years competing in Kosovo. Following an impressive spell in Liepāja, Mankenda was transferred to Riga FC a year later.
During his time with Riga, Mankenda made 91 appearances, scoring nine goals and providing 26 assists. One of his most memorable moments came in the summer of 2023 during UEFA Conference League qualification, when he scored a crucial late goal in the second leg against Hungarian side Kecskeméti TE to force extra time. Riga FC went on to win in extra time and advance to the next round.
Last season, Mankenda’s role under head coach Adrian Gula was more limited compared to previous campaigns. He made 28 league appearances, starting 16 matches, and contributed one goal along with nine assists.
RFS have been relatively quiet in the transfer market this offseason, focusing on players already proven in the Virslīga. The club has added Matheus Clemente from FK Auda, Shina Kumater from BFC Daugavpils, and Niks Dusalijevs from FK Tukums 2000. Mankenda now joins that group as another experienced domestic addition.
RFS will begin their new Virslīga season on March 7 at home against league debutants Ogre United.
