Mumbai, Aug 26 (Football news) Reigning ISL champions Mumbai City FC on Thursday announced the signing of Brazilian midfielder Cássio Gabriel on a season-long loan from Campeonato Brasileirao Serie B club Vila Nova.

Fondly known as 'Cássinho', the 29-year-old started his youth career at Fluminense's under 20s side and went on to play for a number of Brazilian clubs such as Paysandu SC, Bento Goncalves, Guarani, Anapolis, ASEEV-GO, Penapolense, Piracicaba, Sao Bento, Botafogo and Mirassol before joining Vila Nova in June 2020.

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Cássio, who can play on either wings or in the middle, made 12 appearances for Vila Nova and has one assist to his name.

"Mumbai City have a great profile back home in Brazil. There are a number of Brazilians who have played at Mumbai City and I've only heard positive things about the Club," Gabriel was quoted as saying in a media statement issued by the club.

"Mumbai City are the defending champions and their ambition is what convinced me that this is where I want to be. The club wants to win titles, they want to be the best, not only in India but at a continental level, and I am really excited to be part of a Club of this mentality," he added.

Head Coach Sergio Lobera said, "Cássio comes from an excellent football pedigree and brings a lot of valuable experience along with his skillset on the pitch. I believe he can be a vital member of the Mumbai City family and certainly contribute positively to the team's performance." 

News source: PTI