FC Lugano is delighted to announce the signing of Joel Bichsel, a Swiss defender born in 2002, from 1. FC Saarbrücken (German 3. Liga). A 194cm-tall left-footed centre-back, he has signed a three-year contract (until 30 June 2029). Bichsel combines physical presence with tactical versatility. He can also be deployed as a left-back or in a three-man defence.
Born in Olten on 4 March 2002, Bichsel came through the ranks at the BSC Young Boys Academy. He completed his development with the Yellow-Blacks before signing his first professional contract in 2023.
In the 2023/24 season, he went out on loan to SC Freiburg II, then playing in the German third division (34 appearances), before moving to 1. FC Saarbrücken, also in the 3. Liga, where he consolidated his experience, making a total of 70 appearances and scoring two goals.
At international level, Bichsel has also represented Switzerland at youth level. Following his debut for the Switzerland U20s in March 2023, he was also called up to the U21 squad in October of the same year, making four appearances for them.
Sebastian Pelzer, Chief Sports Officer at FC Lugano: “Joel is a left-footed defender who combines physical presence, solidity and versatility. Although he is still young, he has already gained experience in Switzerland and Germany, and we believe his profile fits well with our sporting project. His qualities offer us further options in defence, and we are delighted to welcome him to Lugano, confident that he will make a significant contribution to our squad.”
FC Lugano extends a warm welcome to Joel and wishes him all the best in the black and white bianconeri shirt.