Anwar Ali: Mumbai City youngster withdraws from squad after diagnosing heart problem

The 19 year-old will fly to Rennes, France to consult expert doctors in light with the diagnosis of his problem.

Former FIFA U-17 World Cup star Anwar Ali has withdrawn from Mumbai City FC squad following a heart problem, Khel Now understands.

In light of the matter, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Mumbai City have both pledged to support the defender during his tough time. As it appears, Ali will travel to Rennes, France to consult the expert doctors there and begin working on his rehabilitation.

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Ali was one of the standout performers during the Blue Colts' campaign at the U-17 World Cup in India in 2017. His performance in the tournament was tracked by the Indian Super League (ISL) outfit and in the following year they finally made a move by signing him for hefty sum of Rs. 30 lakh.

Post his signature, Ali was sent back on loan to AIFF's Developmental Team, Indian Arrows in the I-League. Playing for the Arrows, the robust centre-back appeared in almost each and every game in the I-League last season and was also part of the team that defeated the big ones in the league including Gokulam Kerala and Mohun Bagan.

The 19 year-old was listed in the Mumbai City squad for the upcoming 2019-20 season and was in a great spirit as he also received a call-up for the national team under Igor Stimac.

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However, things took a surprise turn and during a medical test in Mumbai, Anwar Ali was diagnosed with a heart problem. The severity of the problem is yet to be revealed and all taken positively, the former Minerva Punjab player will step back on to the pitch after his rehabilitation.