Wigan Athletic have completed the loan signing of Liverpool defender Isaac Mabaya for the 2025/26 season.
The 20-year-old arrives at the Brick Community Stadium looking to gain his first extended spell of senior football.
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Mabaya becomes Ryan Lowe’s seventh signing of the summer, with the versatile right-sided defender making the switch from Anfield in search of regular first-team opportunities. The move is subject to standard approval from the Premier League, EFL, and FA.
Mabaya has long been regarded as one of Liverpool’s brightest academy prospects, having joined the club at the age of six and progressed through the ranks with distinction. Initially a midfielder, he transitioned to full-back during his development and was a standout performer for the Reds’ youth sides.
He impressed during Liverpool’s 2022 pre-season tour in Asia, featuring in senior friendlies under Jürgen Klopp. After recovering from a serious ankle injury that disrupted his 2022/23 campaign, he returned to form and was rewarded with a new contract in 2023.
Earlier this year, Mabaya made his competitive debut for Liverpool under Arne Slot, appearing in the FA Cup against Plymouth Argyle. He had also been named on the bench for the Champions League tie against PSV Eindhoven just weeks prior.
Speaking to Wigan’s official channels, Mabaya said:
“I am delighted to be here, and can’t wait to get started. Speaking to the Head Coach about what he expects from me, I believe I can bring value to the team. I’ve had a few conversations with the Gaffer, and I really like his philosophies and way of playing. I think it will be a great place to develop my career. I know how big the Club is, and can’t wait to play in front of the fans.”
Ryan Lowe, who previously considered signing Mabaya during his time at Preston North End, added:
“He’s a powerful right wing-back who will definitely give us something down the right-hand side. We saw him first-hand against us for Liverpool U21s – he’s fit, firing, and really excited to be here.”
Writer’s View
This move looks like a win for both Wigan and Isaac Mabaya. For the player, it’s a crucial step out of academy football and into the men’s game, where his physical attributes and technical qualities will be tested weekly. For Wigan, it’s a clever piece of recruitment that adds pace, power and Premier League potential to the right flank.
Mabaya arrives hungry and highly rated, and if he stays injury-free, this could be one of the most eye-catching loans of the League One season.
