Bengaluru FC have strengthened their defensive options ahead of the Indian Super League 2026-27 season with the signing of experienced Dutch centre-back Menno Koch.
The defender arrives with considerable experience across European football, having represented clubs in the Netherlands, Belgium, Bulgaria and Norway during his career. Koch becomes Bengaluru FC’s fifth addition as the club continues to reshape its squad for the upcoming campaign.
A product of PSV Eindhoven’s renowned academy, Koch began his senior career with the Dutch club in 2012. His time in Dutch football also included spells with NAC Breda and FC Utrecht.
He later moved outside the Netherlands, representing KAS Eupen in Belgium and CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria before joining Sarpsborg 08 FF in Norway’s Eliteserien, his most recent club.
During his career, Koch has shared the pitch with or played against several prominent Dutch footballers, including Robin van Persie, Cody Gakpo and Steven Bergwijn.
Bengaluru FC head coach Pep Muñoz believes the Dutch defender’s physical presence, experience and ability with the ball will fit the style the club is looking to develop.
“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. I’m glad that he’s joining us in Bengaluru and we cannot wait to welcome him,” Muñoz said.
Koch also welcomed the opportunity to begin a new chapter in India, revealing that discussions with the Bengaluru FC management convinced him to make the move.
“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. I’m here to take up this new challenge in India, work hard and give absolutely everything for the shirt,” Koch said.
The Dutchman joins a growing list of new arrivals at Bengaluru FC. Spanish midfielder Borja Martinez, Portuguese centre-back Sandro Embalo, Argentine midfielder Manuel de Iriondo and Montenegrin striker Mihailo Perovic have already been added to the squad.
With Koch now joining those four recruits, Bengaluru FC’s preparations for the 2026-27 ISL season continue to gather pace.
