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Mumbai City FC is undeniably one of the best teams in the Indian Super League (ISL), having consistently performed at the top level. Last season, they came close to winning the League Shield and secured a thrilling victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giants in the ISL Cup final. With a balanced squad and strategic transfers, Mumbai City FC is gearing up for what could be one of their best seasons yet. In this preview, we’ll take a deep dive into their squad, tactics, and chances of clinching the title this season.
Squad Overview
| No. | Player | Position | Age | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rehnesh Paramba | Goalkeeper | 31 | India |
| 2 | Phurba Lachenpa | Goalkeeper | 26 | India |
| 3 | Ahan Prakash | Goalkeeper | 20 | India |
| 4 | Tiri | Defender | 33 | Spain |
| 5 | Valpuia | Defender | 24 | India |
| 6 | Hardik Bhatt | Defender | 27 | India |
| 7 | Mehtab Singh | Defender | 26 | India |
| 8 | Sanjeev Stalin | Defender | 23 | India |
| 9 | Nathan Rodrigues | Defender | 20 | India |
| 10 | Akash Mishra | Defender | 22 | India |
| 11 | Lallianzuala Chhangte | Forward | 26 | India |
| 12 | Vikram Pratap Singh | Forward | 23 | India |
| 13 | Nikolaos Karelis | Forward | 29 | Greece |
| 14 | Daniel Lalhlimpuia | Forward | 23 | India |
| 15 | Thaer Krouma | Defender | 34 | Tunisia |
| 16 | Jon Toral | Midfielder | 29 | Spain |
| 17 | Jeremy Manzorro | Midfielder | 26 | India |
| 18 | Supratim Das | Midfielder | 20 | India |
| 19 | Hitesh Sharma | Midfielder | 24 | India |
| 20 | Brandon Fernandes | Midfielder | 29 | India |
| 21 | TP Rehenesh | Goalkeeper | 31 | India |
| 22 | Laxmikant Kattimani | Goalkeeper | 31 | India |
Mumbai City FC has carefully crafted a mix of experienced players and young talent. Their key strength lies in their well-balanced approach to spending, ensuring they have the right foreign and domestic players to fit into their system. Last season, they were India's sole representative in the AFC Champions League, putting on a commendable performance. They also fought hard for the Shield, going toe-to-toe with Mohun Bagan Super Giants until the final moments. This season, the team looks stronger than ever, with a pre-season that has boosted morale and fine-tuned their tactics.
Transfer Activity
Unlike other teams, Mumbai City FC has not gone on a spending spree but has focused on bringing in players who fit perfectly into their system. They’ve added key figures like John Toral, a dynamic attacking midfielder who has been on fire during pre-season, and Changte, whose chemistry with the number nine position is delightful to watch. The club also strengthened their defense with experienced players like Taher Khroma, who will solidify their backline.
Table: Key Signings for Mumbai City FC
| Player | Position | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| John Toral | Attacking Midfielder | Goal-scoring playmaker |
| Taher Khroma | Center Back | Defensive leadership |
| Peter Cutki | Forward | Quick transitions and pressing |
Key Players to Watch
Mumbai City FC boasts a roster filled with talent. Here are the key players to keep an eye on this season:
Taher Khroma (Center Back)
Taher Khroma is expected to be a defensive rock for Mumbai City this season. His ability to organize the defense and maintain composure under pressure makes him an invaluable asset.
John Toral (Attacking Midfielder)
With his vision and goal-scoring ability, John Toral could be the player who takes Mumbai City FC’s midfield to the next level. He has already made a mark in pre-season, scoring consistently and showing great chemistry with his teammates.
Change (Winger)
Changte’s link-up play with the forwards and his creativity on the wings make him a crucial part of Mumbai’s attack. His understanding of quick transitions and pressing fits perfectly with the club’s tactical approach.
Tactical Approach
Mumbai City FC is known for their attacking philosophy under head coach Des Buckingham. They have mastered a possession-based style of football, combined with quick transitions and high pressing. Their defensive compactness, coupled with swift attacks, makes them a formidable force in the ISL.
Tactical Approach of Mumbai City FC
Challenges Ahead
Despite their strengths, Mumbai City FC faces some challenges, particularly in maintaining consistency throughout the season. Injuries could also pose a threat, especially if key players are sidelined. Last season, they struggled with consistency in midfield, which could be an area for improvement this year. However, the addition of players like John Toral is expected to address this issue.
Mumbai City FC 2024-25 ISL Fixtures
| Match No. | Date | Time (IST) | Home Team | Away Team | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | September 13, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mohun Bagan SG | Mumbai City FC | Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata |
| 2 | September 21, 2024 | 5:00 PM | Jamshedpur FC | Mumbai City FC | JRD Tata Sports Complex, Jamshedpur |
| 3 | October 2, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mumbai City FC | Bengaluru FC | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
| 4 | October 19, 2024 | 5:00 PM | FC Goa | Mumbai City FC | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa |
| 5 | October 27, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mumbai City FC | Odisha FC | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
| 6 | November 3, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mumbai City FC | Kerala Blasters FC | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
| 7 | November 9, 2024 | 5:00 PM | Chennaiyin FC | Mumbai City FC | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai |
| 8 | November 26, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mumbai City FC | Punjab FC | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
| 9 | November 30, 2024 | 5:00 PM | Mumbai City FC | Hyderabad FC | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
| 10 | December 5, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Odisha FC | Mumbai City FC | Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneshwar |
| 11 | December 15, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mohammedan SC | Mumbai City FC | Kishore Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata |
| 12 | December 21, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mumbai City FC | Chennaiyin FC | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
| 13 | December 30, 2024 | 7:30 PM | Mumbai City FC | NorthEast United FC | Mumbai Football Arena, Mumbai |
Conclusion
With a balanced squad, a strategic approach to transfers, and a strong pre-season, Mumbai City FC looks poised to be one of the top contenders for the ISL title this season. Their tactical discipline, combined with their squad depth, makes them favorites for both the Shield and the title. Fans can expect a thrilling season as Mumbai City FC aims to dominate the league.
People Also Ask
Q: Who is the head coach of Mumbai City FC for ISL 2024?
A: Des Buckingham is the head coach of Mumbai City FC for ISL 2024, known for his attacking philosophy and tactical acumen.
Q: Which players did Mumbai City FC sign for the 2024 season?
A: Some of the key signings for Mumbai City FC include John Toral, Taher Khroma, and Peter Cutki.
Q: What is Mumbai City FC's biggest challenge this season?
A: Maintaining consistency and managing injuries will be key challenges for Mumbai City FC in ISL 2024.
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