Defending Indian Super League (ISL) champions Mumbai City FC have bolstered their squad by signing midfielder Brandon Fernandes on a three-year contract with an option to extend for an additional season. The 29-year-old creative playmaker, who previously had a brief stint with the Islanders in 2015, joins on a free transfer and will don the number 10 jersey.
Fernandes brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to Mumbai City FC. Over his career, he has amassed 163 appearances across Indian domestic tournaments and the AFC Champions League, scoring 25 goals and providing 31 assists. He has also achieved significant success with FC Goa, winning the ISL League Winners’ Shield (2019-20), the Super Cup (2019), and the Durand Cup (2021).
Last season, Fernandes demonstrated his playmaking prowess by scoring three goals and providing four assists for FC Goa, with one of those goals coming against Mumbai City FC in the ISL semi-final. He also created the most chances (60) in the ISL, which highlights his ability to influence games significantly. His contributions to the national team include 25 appearances and 7 assists.
Fernandes expressed his excitement about returning to Mumbai City FC. “I am delighted to return to Mumbai City FC. It is one of the top clubs in Indian football, and it represents a new and exciting challenge for me in my career,” he said.
He highlighted the club’s recent performances and his eagerness to contribute to their continued success. “The team has been performing brilliantly over the last few years, and I am thrilled to join such a talented squad. I am eager to contribute by scoring goals and assisting my teammates in the upcoming season as we strive to secure more silverware.”
Fernandes also praised head coach Petr Kratky’s vision and ambition. “I have had extensive discussions with coach Petr Kratky, and his vision and plans for the team demonstrate a lot of ambition. His confidence in my abilities is incredibly motivating, and I am determined to repay his faith through my performances on the pitch,” Fernandes added.
Head coach Petr Kratky expressed his enthusiasm about Fernandes joining the team. “Brandon is a dynamic midfielder whose performances last season truly stood out. His technical skills, vision, and relentless dedication on the field will undoubtedly add a new dimension to our squad and elevate our overall set-up. I am eagerly anticipating his arrival and the success he will bring to the team,” Kratky said.
Kandarp Chandra, CEO of Mumbai City FC, also shared his excitement about Fernandes’ return. “Brandon Fernandes has been one of the brightest footballers in India over the last few years, and I am delighted to welcome him back to Mumbai City FC. His energy and skill on the pitch are exactly what our team needs, and we are eager to witness the incredible moments he will create for our club,” Chandra stated. He expressed confidence that Fernandes would quickly become a fan favorite due to his dynamic play and significant impact on the team’s success.
With Brandon Fernandes’ addition, Mumbai City FC has strengthened its squad ahead of the new ISL season. His experience, creativity, and playmaking abilities are expected to play a crucial role in the Islanders’ pursuit of continued success and silverware. As Fernandes embarks on this new chapter of his career, the club and its supporters eagerly anticipate the exciting contributions he will bring to the pitch.
