Mumbai FC sign Arata Izumi on loan from Atletico de Kolkata

“I am very excited about playing for Mumbai FC. I’m familiar with a lot of players here, like NP Pradeep and Steven Dias who I played with at Mahindra United. It’s a good time for football in India and people are taking good interest in the sport. And, I’m thrilled about this new challenge. I’m eager to perform well and I’m sure that it’s going to be a great season with Mumbai FC,” an excited Izumi told Goal.com.

The Japan born Indian International scored five goals for Atletico de Kolkata in the recently concluded Indian Super League. 33-year old Izumi was part of Pune FC in the 2014-15 I-League, and Mumbai FC will be his fourth I-League club after donning the colours of East Bengal, Mahindra United and Pune FC. (Read: An open letter to Nita Ambani from an Indian football fan)

As per a report on Goal.com, Izumi rejected offers from East Bengal, DSK Shivajians, Salgaocar and Sporting Clube de Goa to join the Mumbai side, coached by Khalid Jamil. (Read: ISL won’t sustain in the long run without full year calendar: Praful Patel) 

Mumbai FC will take on Shillong Lajong FC in their inaugural match of the 2015-16 I-League season on January 9. (Read: Top 5 moments of Indian Football in 2015)