I-League: India international Anwar Ali likely to sign for Mumbai FC

Anwar Ali (in blue) in action against Australia in the 2011 Asian Cup

Former JCT and Mohun Bagan center back Anwar Ali is likely to join Mumbai FC, Sportskeeda can reveal. The India international has agreed personal terms with the Mumbai club and is expected to sign for them soon.

“I have had talks with Mumbai FC but haven’t officially signed yet. Hopefully everything will be completed soon,” Anwar told Sportskeeda.

The 28-year-old central defender, who last season played for United Sikkim, revealed that he also had an offer to play in IMG -Reliance’s proposed IPL-style football tournament. For now, he is looking to play in the I-League but remains hopeful of playing in the new tournament if clubs eventually decide to release players.

“I had considered the offer from Reliance IMG but since I-League clubs have decided not to release players for that, I decided to talk with Mumbai FC. If later on, I-League players are allowed to play in the IPL maybe then I will have a chance but only if my club permits,” Anwar added.

The Punjab-born defender suffered relegation with United Sikkim last season, so does he have any regrets of playing there for one season?

“I wouldn’t say I have regrets but yes I wish things went differently there. I joined them thinking this was a new club with an aim to do well in the I-League but the budget was too small so we didn’t have enough quality and experience to remain in the top flight,” he opined.

Anwar, who has won 31 caps for India, hasn’t played for the national team since an international friendly against Malaysia in Kolkata back in November 2011. Thus, he is determined to have a good season in 2013-14 and catch the attention of national coach Wim Koeveramans.