Exclusive: Ahmed Jahouh set for high-profile move to Mumbai City FC

The 31-year-old would follow the footsteps of Sergio Lobera to join the Islanders.

Ahmed Jahouh is set to join Mumbai City FC ahead of the next season of the Indian Super League, Khel Now has learnt.

This transfer could also mean that Ahmed Jahouh will follow his former head coach Sergio Lobera from FC Goa to Mumbai City FC. Earlier last month, Khel Now broke the news that Lobera is in advanced talks to take over the head coach's job at the Islanders, which is lying vacant ever since Jorge Costa’s departure in March.

"The City Football Group believes that Ahmed Jahouh is an important player for Lobera's system and that's why they agreed to break the bank for him," said a source close the developments.

Interestingly, he will sign a two-year contract worth ₹5.2 crores. This figure could translate to ₹ 2.6 crore/per year. Such a whopping sum could easily make the 31-year-old one of the highest earners in the league.

The former FC Goa midfielder has been a vital part of the Gaurs’ team in their imperious run of performances over the course of the past two seasons.

In the previous season, Jahouh represented the Gaurs in 17 matches and his partnership with Lenny Rodrigues at the base of the midfield formed the foundation for their free-flowing, expansive brand of football. Over the course of the last three campaigns, the Moroccan international has played in 56 encounters. He has scored a solitary goal and has also registered seven assists throughout his tenure with the club.

However, the most remarkable facet in Jahouh’s gameplay is his tremendous work-ethic and industrious method at the centre of the park. He finished the 2019-20 ISL season as the player who recorded the most number of passes. The 31-year-old made 1279 passes in 17 games, in addition to 182 tackles and 57 interceptions.

He acts like a shield in front of the backline, actively linking the defenders to the forward line with his concise, accurate passing acumen. Mumbai City already boast of a prodigious midfield including the likes of Rowllin Borges, Paulo Machado and Raynier Fernandes. The addition of Jahouh would only enhance the quality of the side and add a level-headed, experienced personality in the team.

Also, acquiring Ahmed Jahouh would send out a signal that the City Football Group mean business and are ready to pour in the investment required to help the club take the next giant leap in the coming years.