Freddie Ljungberg Joins Indian Super League Team Mumbai City FC
Freddie Ljungberg, former Swedish and Arsenal star, will add colour to the Indian Super League which will make its debut this year.
Mumbai City FC on Thursday announced the signing of the former Arsenal star Freddie Ljungberg as the marquee player for the inaugural season of the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL).
Ljungberg is among a clutch of top former internationals like David Trezequet, Alessandro Del Piero and Nicolas Anelka to sign up for the IPL version of football.
Ljungberg is a former Swedish national team captain and a midfielder who has been a critical part of football clubs such as Arsenal, West Ham United and Halmstads BK. His presence at Mumbai City FC will ensure the team has a strong midfield.
Ljungberg (37) is recognized the world over for his skill and contribution to the sport when he was part of Arsenal's feared lineup in the early part of this millennium. For several seasons, he played a major role for the club including being a member of the unbeaten 49-game run for the team.
In 2008, Arsenal's manager Arsene Wenger placed Ljungberg 11th in Arsenal Gunners' Greatest 50 Players. For his home country of Sweden, Ljungberg has earned 75 caps scoring 14 times.
Speaking about the signing, team owner Ranbir Kapoor said, "Mumbai City FC is immensely proud to sign a player like Freddie Ljungberg today. As a former Sweden captain and Arsenal great, the world football fraternity understands what he is worth and I'm sure Mumbai's football fans will be delighted with his presence in the team."
Ljungberg said, "Mumbai City FC presents a thrilling opportunity to play in India and I'm glad to be part of the team in the very first Indian Super League season. Talented Indian players together with the likes of Anelka, Friedrich, Cmovs and others will make the team an exciting outfit and I look forward to contributing to the team's success."