ISL: Mumbai City FC rope in former FC Goa striker Jorge Ortiz from Shenzhen Peng City

Mumbai City FC need a massive turnaround to keep their ISL playoff hope alive.

At a time when Mumbai City FC are grappling with a challenging start to the Indian Super League season and struggling to break into the top six, the club has strengthened its attacking lineup with the acquisition of experienced Spanish striker Jorge Ortiz from Villacañas.

Ortiz, a proven performer, has joined the Islanders with high expectations of rejuvenating their campaign. He will aim to propel Mumbai City FC up the ISL points table while contributing significantly to their quest to defend the ISL title.

Welcome to #AamchiCity, Jorge Ortiz 🤩#HolaOrtiz #MumbaiCity 🔵

— Mumbai City FC (@MumbaiCityFC) January 23, 2025

Ortiz’s past experience with City Football Group

Jorge Ortiz, a product of Getafe’s esteemed youth academy, has built a remarkable career, including stints with Atlético Madrid’s reserve sides. In 2022, he joined Mumbai City FC’s sister club, Shenzhen Peng City, competing in China’s top-tier division, the Chinese Super League.

Ortiz is no stranger to the Indian Super League, having previously showcased his talent with FC Goa, where he made 36 appearances, netting 14 goals and providing 8 assists. Now, as he dons the Mumbai City FC jersey, Jorge aims to uphold the legacy of iconic strikers like Diego Forlán, Bartholomew Ogbeche, and Adam La Fonde. His arrival marks a crucial moment as Mumbai City FC seeks to rebound and reclaim their stature in the ISL.

What did he say on his arrival back to India

On his return to India, Jorge Ortiz expressed his excitement about rejoining the Indian Super League and embarking on a fresh chapter with Mumbai City FC. He shared his delight in being part of a club under the City Football Group umbrella, having previously been associated with the same network.

Ortiz praised the passionate fanbase of Mumbai City FC, describing the atmosphere created by the loyal supporters from the “City of Dreams” as truly exemplary. He is eager to get started and is committed to ensuring thrilling times ahead for Mumbai’s football arena.

He said, “I’m excited to be back in the Indian Super League, to join an exciting club like Mumbai City FC and continue my journey within City Football Group. Both the Club and the Group set very high standards. The atmosphere that the city of Mumbai and Mumbai City FC share is unmatched, and I’m looking forward to getting started with my new teammates, the fans, and contributing to their success.”

Krtaky can’t wait to get started with Ortiz

Head Coach Petr Kratky expressed his delight and satisfaction with the arrival of Jorge Ortiz, highlighting the Spanish forward’s proven ability in the Indian Super League and his experience at higher levels. Kratky believes Ortiz’s addition will strengthen the squad, bolster the attack, and enhance the team’s prospects in the ongoing season.

Mumbai City FC, the reigning ISL Cup champions, have endured a disappointing campaign so far. Their struggles were underscored by a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Jamshedpur FC at the Mumbai Football Arena. With the team in dire need of a turnaround, Jorge Ortiz is expected to make an immediate and significant impact, bringing renewed hope to the Islanders’ campaign.

Kratky said, “We’re thrilled to welcome Ortiz to Mumbai City FC. He’s an attacker with proven ability in the ISL and has experience playing at a high level. We always strive to get better and find ways to improve our performance on the field. In that sense, Ortiz will strengthen our squad this season. We are excited with his addition and hope to achieve success for the remainder of the season.” 

Can he fill in Manzorro’s boots efficiently ?

Jorge Ortiz arrives as a direct replacement for Jeremy Manzoro, who joined Mumbai City FC from Jamshedpur FC amid high hopes and enthusiasm. Unfortunately, Manzoro struggled to make an impact, failing to register a single goal or assist in the nine matches he played for the Islanders.

With Manzoro sidelined due to injury, Ortiz steps in to take his place and is tasked with reinvigorating Mumbai City FC’s attacking prowess. The Spaniard will aim to strengthen the team’s forward line and contribute to turning around the Islanders’ fortunes in the crucial upcoming fixtures

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