ISL: Mumbai City FC rope in Argentine Matias Defederico

Matias Defederico signs for mumbai City FC in ISL 3. Image Source: tandildiario.com
Matias Defederico signs for Mumbai City FC in ISL 3. Image Source: tandildiario.com

Internet Desk: Mumbai City FC have signed up Argentinian footballer Matias Defederico for their campaign in the upcoming season 3 of the Indian Super League.

“In an effort to further reinforce and strengthen the team, Mumbai City FC has signed the South American for his style of play and his experience on the international circuit,” said the club in a media release today.

The 26-year-old player is known for his pace and famouse for his dribbling ability. He made his professional debut for Argentinian club, Club Atlético Huracán, and shortly after plied his trade at Brazilian powerhouse Corinthians.

 Matias has also played international football for the Argentian national team, scoring a goal on his debut, and has had overseas turnouts in UAE, Turkey and Chile.

This will be his first time playing in India and he’s excited in charting new territories.

“I am really happy to have signed with Mumbai City FC.

I’ve heard a lot about the club and the ISL and I am eager to start training with the team and give my all for my teammates and the fans of the club. Mumbai is a great city and I can’t wait for this new challenge in my career,” he said.

Alexandre Guimaraes, head coach of Mumbai City FC, said, “Defederico possesses immense skill and talent, and has played at some of the most challenging leagues in the world.

He brings a lot to the team, and we are confident that he will be a huge asset for Mumbai City FC in the upcoming season.”

Rahul Bheke signs for FRC Pune City in ISL 3. File Pic
Rahul Bheke signs for FRC Pune City in ISL 3. File Pic

Meanwhile, FC Pune City have signed up Rahul Bheke on loan from East Bengal for the 2016 edition of the tournament.

Bheke, a defender, will become FC Pune City’s first signing from their region.

FC Pune City CEO Gaurav Modwel said, “Rahul is first son of the soil Maharashtra player we have on board. Besides being a strong defender, he impressed one and all with his long throws creating attacking opportunities in last ISL. We are thankful to East Bengal for allowing Rahul to continue his development with our club and he will surely be an asset to us.”

Bheke represented Kerala Blasters in 2015 season of ISL.

The 25-year old started his professional career with Air India 2011 after a stint with U-19 squad of Mahindra United.

The Mumbai lad signed up with Mumbai Tigers in January 2014 after Air India was expelled from I League. After two seasons with his home-town team, he was snapped by East Bengal in 2015.

Head coach Antonio Habas said, “Rahul is the one of those young talents in the ISL who has impressed me with his defensive skills. Also he is one of the most featured Indian outfield players playing in the ISL last season, which means he was crucial in the scheme of things at his former club. I hope he continues to show the same commitment and grows to become a better player with us.”

Bheke was excited with the development.

“It’s good to represent a team from your own state. With coach Habas at helm of things, I am excited to be a part of this club and hope to contribute as much as I can to take the club to its ultimate goal,” said Bheke.