5 players we never thought we would see in the ISL

#2 Diego Forlan

Forlan played for Mumbai City FC in this season’s ISL

Mumbai City FC clearly know how to make audacious statements; for the 2016 season, Mumbai clearly needed an adequate replacement for the departing Anelka. They managed to attract Diego Forlan, whose reputation for elevating team performances and having an outstanding commitment to his football is only eclipsed by his cult following.

Having played for Manchester United, his Indian fan following was virtually guaranteed. La Liga enthusiasts were much more appreciative and excited following the Uruguayan’s addition to the Mumbai City FC roster.

To receive the talent of Forlan was nothing short of extraordinary, especially since he had already gone back to play for his boyhood club, Penyarol, in what was expected to be his final club before hanging up his boots.

Mumbai can rejoice also with Forlan’s statement after the conclusion of their campaign this season, wherein he expressed his desire to return to India for the next season of the ISL. His inclusion in the squad ensured that Mumbai City ended this edition at the top of the table, and his five goals and four assists for a goal-shy Mumbai team meant that his performances were catalytic to Mumbai’s good fortunes this season.

One highlight in particular, and one that will definitely be remembered fondly during the long hiatus is his hat-trick in Mumbai’s 5-0 demolition of Kerala Blasters.