Mumbai City FC lift people's spirits to overcome COVID-19 together

The Islanders put out a video message to erge people to stay together in these testing times.

Indian Super League franchise Mumbai City FC ha put out a video message wherein they attempt to bring together the people of the commercial capital of the country amid the coronavirus pandemic. Mumbai is the worst affected place in the nation currently, with 14,947 cases in the city alone. The total number recently increased to a whopping 24,427 cases in the state of Maharashtra.

Moreover, the implementation of a nationwide lockdown means that the spirit of the people has been naturally dampened. In such times, the foremost football team from the state has come up with a memorandum that has the essence of enthusiasm and hopefulness. The video has stills from the home games of the Islanders with the West Coast Brigade - their official fanbase, greeting the team with their own pomp and show.

It sends out an indication that the people of the metropolis have to unite together in the battle against the pandemic. Values such as togetherness and passion are immensely important in the game of football too and Mumbai City FC's fans have never lacked in that aspect. The same principles would guide us at a time when everyone is confined to their homes in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

The team’s most capped player and India international Amrinder Singh quipped, “What we're seeing all around the world right now is unprecedented and unfortunate. But, humanity has stood tall in the face of adversity before and I am confident that we can fight this, as long as we all stick together.”

He further continued, “We want to thank the healthcare professionals, law enforcement and civic authorities who have been working ever so hard in this battle, not just in Mumbai or India but across the globe. I urge everyone to maintain protocol, practice social and physical distancing and do our bit in curbing the spread of the virus.”

Local lad Raynier Fernandes also reflected on the present situation in his beloved city. The midfielder mentioned, “If we see the numbers, Mumbai is one of the most affected parts of the country. We talk about the spirit of Mumbai, but knowing how tough this period has been on so many of us, we have to applaud the spirit and the resolve of the people across India and the world.”

He even remarked, “We, the people, have a massive responsibility in this fight against COVID-19 and together, we can overcome it. Let's stay at home, keep our families and our communities safe and most importantly, remain united.”

Mumbai City FC narrowly missed out on making the playoffs in the previous season of the ISL, as they finished in fifth spot in the points table. However, the City Football Group’s takeover has stimulated new rays of aspiration among the Islanders and their journey hereon would be a fascinating one to witness.