ISL 2020-21: FC Goa captain Mandar Rao Desai likely to join Mumbai City FC

FC Goa captain Mandar Rao Desai is likely to join rivals Mumbai City FC ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Super League (ISL), The Bridge understands.

As per sources close to the development, the move, which sees Mandar reuniting with former coach Sergio Lobera, is more or less a ‘done deal’. The 28-year-old left back, whose contract with Goa runs out this summer, has received a ‘big’ offer from Mumbai, amid other offers, and is close to putting pen to paper.

Fresh from the City Football Group’s investment, Mumbai City FC are in the process of assembling the best possible squad, capable of challenging for the AFC Champions League (ACL) spot as well as the ISL title. They needed a left back desperately, with Subhasish Bose leaving for ATK-Mohun Bagan.Having played under Lobera at Goa, Mandar is quite familiar with the Spaniard’s coaching.

The national team defender is known for helping out in the attacking half. He made four assists in the recently concluded season. Naturally, he fits the bill perfectly for Mumbai.

Reportedly, Mumbai have also made moves for Goa’s Ahmed Jahouh and Mourtada Fall while Manvir Singh has also left for ATK. At the moment, things do seem a little dire for the club which will represent India at the ACL next season.