Midfielder Raynier Fernandes has signed a contract extension with Mumbai City FC, which will keep him at the club till May 2023, the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) club announced on Tuesday. Raynier has been with the Islanders since 2018.

Born in Dadar, Mumbai, Raynier’s professional career began with Air India. The talented youngster signed for Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan in 2016 and spent two seasons with the Green and Maroons. His stellar showings in Hero I-League 2017-18 prompted Mumbai City FC to move in and sign him up in the summer of 2018.

The 24-year-old made his Hero ISL debut with his home-town club in the 2018-19 campaign and was the breakout star, making 17 appearances, helping his team reach the semi-finals. He was rewarded for his solid performances with a national team debut under head coach Igor Stimac during India’s King’s Cup campaign in Thailand.

With Rowllin Borges joining Mumbai for the Hero ISL 2019-20 campaign, Raynier’s gametime was slightly reduced last season but the youngster gave a good account of himself whenever called upon to play a role. Despite mostly operating as a screen for the defence, Raynier also has the ability to drive forward with the ball, making him a dangerous prospect for any opposition. He already has three goals and as many assists to his name in 33 Hero ISL appearances – very attractive attacking returns for a deep-lying player.

“This is my home. I am grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to play for my city and now to stay on for the coming years and prove myself. I’ve been fortunate to learn so much and be surrounded with fantastic people here. I believe we have a lot more to achieve and I hope we can create some great memories together here at Mumbai City,” Raynier told the official Mumbai City website after the deal was formalized.

Bimal Parekh, co-owner of Mumbai City FC said, “Raynier represents an important part of the fabric of the club. He has his best years ahead of him and we’re confident he can go on to become a very important player, not just for Mumbai City but for the Indian national team as well. He’s at one with the fans, with the badge and with the values of the club. We’re delighted to have Raynier with us.”