ISL 2026-27: Five Mumbai City FC players to watch out for
Mumbai finished 3rd in their ISL 2025-26 campaign.
Mumbai City FC will begin their Indian Super League 2026-27 campaign against Churchill Brothers SC on Sunday, October 11, as the two-time I-League champions prepare for their debut in the competition.
The Islanders will travel to the Fatorda Stadium in Goa for the 7:30 PM kick-off, looking to start the new season on a positive note under head coach Manolo Marquez.
Mumbai City FC enter the campaign with a revamped squad following a period of significant change, including the departure of several established players. With new foreign recruits arriving alongside familiar faces, the opening fixture presents an opportunity for the Islanders to establish their identity early in the season.
Here are five Mumbai City FC players who could prove crucial against Churchill Brothers in their opening match of ISL 2026-27.
5. Vikram Partap Singh
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Vikram Partap Singh’s contract extension underlines his importance to Mumbai City FC as the club enters a new chapter. With Lallianzuala Chhangte’s departure leaving a significant gap in the team’s attacking threat, Vikram has an opportunity to take on greater responsibility and establish himself as one of the faces of the Islanders.
Manolo Marquez’s previous preference for using Vikram on the right wing during his stint with India could work in his favor, giving him a familiar role from which to exploit spaces, make runs behind defenses and contribute in attack. While he may not always be the most skillfull player on the pitch, Vikram’s work rate, directness and commitment are qualities he consistently brings to the team.
He has already shown his goal-scoring ability, particularly two seasons ago, and rediscovering that form would be a major confidence booster for both the player and the club. With a renewed commitment to Mumbai, Vikram will have the opportunity to step out of Chhangte’s shadow and become a more prominent figure in the Islanders’ attack. A strong start against Churchill Brothers could provide the perfect platform.
4. Leandro OtormÃn
Leandro OtormÃn is an intriguing addition to Mumbai City’s attack and the only foreign recruit in the current group who has not played in the Indian Super League. The Uruguayan will face the challenge of adapting to Indian football while potentially carrying significant creative responsibility for the Islanders.
Primarily an attacking midfielder or second striker, OtormÃn can also operate across the frontline, making his versatility a valuable asset for Marquez. His ability to play between the lines, combine with teammates and create chances in tight spaces could give Mumbai a different dimension in attack.
With changes to the team’s attacking personnel, OtormÃn’s creativity and flexibility could be crucial in helping the Islanders find solutions against organized defenses.
3. Sergio Llamas
Sergio Llamas could be one of Mumbai City’s most important signings, given the lack of another out-and-out midfielder with a similar profile in the squad. Having arrived from Inter Kashi, the Spaniard will be expected to help connect the defense with the attack through his passing, positioning and ability to retain possession.
While Lazar Ćirković is another option that can operate in defensive midfield, he primarily plays as a Centre-back. The Spaniard’s natural midfield profile therefore becomes particularly important in providing balance and control in the middle of the pitch for the Islanders.
His ability to progress the ball forward and link up with the attackers could prove vital against Churchill Brothers, especially if Mumbai need to break down a compact defense from the ISL debutants.
2. Carlos Delgado
After spending five seasons with Odisha FC, Carlos Delgado arrives at Mumbai City FC seeking a new challenge. At 36, the Spanish Centre-back brings considerable Indian football experience, composure and leadership to a squad undergoing a transition.
Delgado’s familiarity with the ISL could help him adapt quickly and provide stability to Mumbai’s backline. His positional awareness and ability to organize the defense will be particularly valuable as the Islanders build new defensive partnerships.
Against Churchill Brothers, he could come in handy in managing difficult situations and ensuring Mumbai remain disciplined at the back.
1. Akash Mishra
Akash Mishra will be keen to make an impact in his first full season since returning from his ACL injury. The left-back found his feet under Manolo Marquez at Hyderabad FC, where his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively made him an important part of the team.
His performances during the recent international break offered plenty of encouragement, particularly his assist for Ryan Williams’ goal against Panama. The left back was comfortable making overlapping runs and providing width for the Blue Tigers during the international break.
Mishra could be crucial in helping Mumbai stretch Churchill Brothers’ defense while maintaining balance at the back. A consistent season would be a significant step forward in his return to his best form.
When will Mumbai City FC start their ISL season?
Mumbai City FC will start their ISL 2026-27 campaign against Churchill Brothers on 11th October, 2026. The match will take place in Fatorda Stadium in Goa, scheduled to start at 7:30 PM IST.
Who is Mumbai City FC’s head coach?
Mumbai City FC roped in Manolo Márquez after the departure of Petr Kratky.
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