Indian Super Legue: Mumbai City sign Akash Mishra from Hyderabad FC

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Mumbai City FC are have announced the signing of Akash Mishra for an undisclosed fee from ISL club Hyderabad FC on Monday (June 19).

The talented young left-back joins the defending Hero ISL Winners on a five-year contract until May 2028.

Akash Mishra started his career with the U Dream Football Academy in Germany at the age of 14 in 2015. Three years on, he returned to India to represent the Indian Arrows and made his debut in the I-League in the 2018-19 season.

In 23 appearances over two seasons for the Arrows, Akash impressed with solid performances and earned himself a call-up to the India Under-18 National Team. His standout displays continued as Akash scored twice in seven games, winning the 2019 SAFF U18 Championship.

A move to Hyderabad FC followed for Akash ahead of the 2020-21 season where the young left-back went on to become a key cog for Manolo Marquez's side.

Akash played every minute of league football for Hyderabad FC in his debut season and then went on to play another stellar season with the Nizams a year later as they won the ISL.

His consistent performances were recognised as he was named the Young Player of the Year by the Football Players' Association of India in 2022.

The 21-year-old also made his India debut in 2021 and so far has played 16 times for the country.

Mishra, who is considered as one of India's top footballing talents, Akash joins Mumbai City FC as the Islanders look to defend their ISL shield and play in the AFC Champions League next season.

And the player was elated to join Mumbai City ahead of the next season.

"To arrive at a club like Mumbai City FC, it is a moment of pride for me and my family. The vision and ambition this club has is for everyone to see but more importantly, it gives me the best platform to grow and progress my career," Mishra said.

"At just 21, I have a lot to learn, a lot to experience and I'm looking forward to meeting my new teammates, the staff and our fans. I want to thank Hyderabad FC for their support and affording me the opportunity to represent them, and I am excited to begin a new chapter of my life in Mumbai," he added.

Des Buckingham, the head coach of Mumbai City also had high praises for the youngster and reckons the player's versatility will add substance to Mumbai's tactics.

"Akash possesses a wide range of positive attributes required in the modern game and is an exciting prospect. Akash will provide us with a different approach to playing and is someone who I am looking forward to working with," the MCFC coach said.

(with inputs from Mumbai City FC)