Mehtab Singh on Mumbai City FC Rollercoaster Season, Leadership, and Challenges as Crucial Defender

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Mumbai City FC's 2024-25 Indian Super League campaign has been a mixed bag with only two wins, four draws and a loss registered in the first seven games. Defender Mehtab Singh has been central to their journey. Despite a shaky start, Mehtab remains optimistic.

He cited the team's resilience in their dramatic 2-2 draw against Mohun Bagan SG as an example of their fighting spirit. "It's just the beginning. Our new players are working on settling into our style of play and we all are learning from our mistakes," he said, emphasizing the need for patience as new players adapt to the system.

The Punjab-born defender, a key figure for both Mumbai City FC and the Indian national team, has embraced the leadership role left by Rahul Bheke. "The coach motivates me to take responsibility and lead the team. I aim to bring discipline and focus, whether it's an aerial duel or ground play," Mehtab explained.

He also highlighted his growing partnership with Spanish centre-back Tiri, stating, "Our communication on the pitch helps us anticipate each other's moves, making us more cohesive. We know each other's qualities. Like, who can take which ball and who can't. So, we talk to each other and it helps us a lot."

Mehtab's approach to defending is deeply rooted in his Punjabi heritage. "Aggression is in my blood," he shared, crediting his upbringing for instilling a relentless fighting spirit. Offensively, he has adapted to modern football's demand for ball-playing defenders, improving his ability to initiate attacks from the back.

"Both at Mumbai and with the national team, the style of play prioritizes building from the back, and I've worked hard to align with that." Having drawn inspiration from East Bengal legend Gurwinder Singh early in his career, Mehtab transitioned from a midfielder to a centre-back.

Today, he thrives on competition, both domestic and international. "Every match is a challenge, and as a defender, the responsibility is immense. Mistakes can be costly, so focus is crucial for 90 minutes," he said.

As Mumbai City FC fights to stabilize their campaign, Mehtab Singh remains confident in the team's ability to rise. "We're excited to play in front of our home fans again. Their energy pushes us to deliver better performances," he concluded, signaling a promising turnaround for the Islanders.