Reports suggest that Mumbai City FC is in advanced negotiations to secure the signing of Brandon Fernandes on a free transfer.
The 29-year-old midfielder’s contract with FC Goa is set to expire this summer, offering an attractive prospect for the Islanders to acquire his talents without having to pay a transfer fee.
Read More: Northeast United FC Sign Gurmeet Singh On A 4.5 Year Long-Term Deal
Brandon Fernandes: A Potential Return to Mumbai City FC and His Impactful Legacy at FC Goa
If the agreement is finalized, Brandon will return to Mumbai City after a hiatus of nine years, initially being selected in the 2015 ISL Drafts. However, both Brandon and the club will aim for a more positive outcome this time around. In his previous stint with Mumbai, Brandon’s appearances were limited to just two matches due to a series of injuries that hampered his season.
Subsequently, he embarked on a loan spell with Mohun Bagan, where he continued to grapple with injuries before eventually completing a permanent transfer to Churchill Brothers.
Brandon Fernandes is currently in his seventh season representing FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL), having initially joined the club in 2017 via the ISL Drafts. Throughout this tenure, he has amassed an impressive record of 121 appearances, contributing significantly with 29 assists and 14 goals.
A native of Goa, Brandon holds the distinction of being third in all-time appearances for the Gaurs and is poised to surpass Edu Bedia’s record of 122 appearances this season. He closely trails behind Seriton Fernandes, who holds the top spot with 145 appearances for Goa. Additionally, Brandon ranks third among current players in terms of longevity with a single ISL club, trailing behind Sunil Chhetri and Seriton Fernandes.
The potential departure of Brandon Fernandes, who serves as their captain, would undoubtedly pose a significant challenge for FC Goa, as he and the club have formed a strong bond over recent seasons. Last summer, Goa reinforced their midfield by signing Mumbai midfielders Raynier and Rowlin Borges (on loan). Now, it seems the tables may turn with Brandon’s potential move to Mumbai City FC. The Gaurs will confront a daunting task in identifying a suitable replacement for the influential midfielder, who has been a cornerstone of their offensive prowess throughout his tenure.
Read More: MS Dhoni to Share Captaincy Responsibilities for CSK in IPL? Ambati Rayudu Makes Shocking Revelation
Strategic Acquisition: Mumbai City Eyeing Brandon’s Versatility to Bolster Attack and Leadership Core
Meanwhile, Peter Kratky, of Mumbai City, seems eager to enhance his team’s attacking capabilities by harnessing Brandon’s versatility, given his proficiency in both midfield and wing positions. Under Manolo Marquez’s stewardship this season, the Goan midfielder has primarily operated on the left flank, showcasing his worth with two assists and three significant chances created in 11 starts. Brandon could seamlessly assimilate into Mumbai’s midfield, forging a potent partnership with Apuia. Alternatively, he could offer reinforcement on the wings, lending support to Bipin and Chhangte in their offensive endeavors.
Brandon’s potential addition could indeed strengthen Mumbai City’s leadership core, particularly alongside seasoned players like Rahul Bheke. The Islanders appear to have a preference for domestic midfielders who also serve as captains for their respective teams. This trend is evident in their earlier signing of Vinit Rai from Odisha FC, who captained the Juggernauts. With Brandon potentially joining the ranks, Mumbai City would further reinforce their leadership dynamics and benefit from the wealth of experience and leadership qualities that these players bring to the team.
