Indian Super League franchise Mumbai City FC has retained Czech defender Pavel ?movš and signing Haitian striker Sony Norde for the ISL - Season 2. Pavel, who had an excellent inaugural season, comes in to fortify the Mumbai City FC defence and Sony Norde to add that extra firepower upfront.
Post his stint with Mumbai City FC in the inaugural ISL, Czech footballer Pavel ?movš played for Romanian side Rapid Bucure?ti. The 6ft 2inch defender has represented his country at youth level (Under-17 to U-21) and prior to joining Mumbai City FC, plied his trade in the top tier of Bulgaria, playing for PFC Levski Sofia. Pavel has made 13 appearances for Mumbai City FC in the first season. He is a no-nonsense defender and a rock in the defence and helped Mumbai City FC win six clean sheets in the first season.
On being retained by Mumbai City FC, Pavel ?movš said, "I'm extremely happy and excited to be back for Mumbai City FC for season 2 of the ISL. The fans never gave up last year and I want to ensure that we give them more victories to cheer for this season."
After a trial with Mexican side San Luis FC, Haitian footballer Sony Norde was able to secure a spot at Argentine club Boca Juniors and played for their reserve team. He was named Bangladesh Premier League's MVP of 2013/14 when playing for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi.
Sony Norde has represented the Haiti national football team at both the youth and senior levels. He made an appearance for the Haiti national team in the ongoing 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Sony Norde was arguably the pick of the foreign players in last season's I-League, scoring 11 goals in 25 appearances for the champions Mohun Bagan AC.
On joining the team and being a part of ISL, Sony Norde said, "I am extremely happy to have been signed for Mumbai City FC. I can't wait to join my new team for the pre-season training. The ISL is a new challenge for me and I am looking forward to helping Mumbai City FC achieve success."
The Nicolas Anelka coached side including India captain Sunil Chhetri will start their campaign against FC Pune City on October 5, 2015.