(Football News)  Mumbai City FC is elated to announce the contract extension of Mehtab Singh, which will keep him with the club until May 2026. Since joining the team in 2020, the 25-year-old has shown remarkable progress and established himself as a crucial figure in the Islanders’ defense. Notably, Mehtab played a vital role in Des Buckingham’s side that clinched the League Winners’ Shield in the 2022-23 season, securing a return to the AFC Champions League and finishing as runners-up in the Durand Cup.

During his time with Mumbai City, Mehtab has developed into a center-back with excellent ball-playing abilities and led the charts for the most successful passes in the 2022-23 ISL season. The young defender from Punjab has also become a consistent threat in front of goal from set pieces, scoring five goals in Mumbai City colors. One notable strike was a powerful left-footed finish against the Kerala Blasters during the 2022-23 league campaign in Kochi.

Mehtab’s strong performances for Mumbai City caught the attention of the Indian National Team, resulting in his call-up to the senior squad in March 2023. He made his debut in a 1-0 victory against Myanmar in the Hero Tri-Nation Football Tournament in Manipur, following his stints with the India U-23 squad at the AFC U23 Championship.

Originally from Khemkaran in Punjab, Mehtab embarked on his football journey at the Mahilpur Football Academy before joining the youth setup at East Bengal in 2016. Impressive displays for the U-18s earned him a place in the East Bengal first team, where he spent two seasons, including a loan spell at Gokulam Kerala. In 2020, Mehtab made the move to Mumbai City, winning the prestigious ISL “double” of the League Winners’ Shield and Trophy in his debut season. He also featured in a historic AFC Champions League campaign, securing two victories in the Group Stage.

Mehtab Singh expressed his delight at the contract extension, stating his privilege to be part of such a wonderful team. He praised the strong bond among everyone at Mumbai City and highlighted the supportive environment the club has fostered. Mehtab expressed his gratitude to Des Buckingham, the coaching staff, and the entire club for aiding his growth as both a player and a person. He expressed his excitement for the next chapter of his Mumbai City journey and his determination to contribute more to the club, coach, teammates, and fans.

Head Coach Des Buckingham commended Mehtab’s development, labeling him as one of the best young Indian defenders in the league. Buckingham attributed Mehtab’s progress to his hard work and willingness to learn. He praised Mehtab’s strong characteristics as a defender and expressed his delight at the player’s commitment to the club. Buckingham eagerly anticipates Mehtab’s continued growth and potential in the seasons to come.

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