Led by Sergio Lobera, Mumbai City FC have roped in a number of attacking talents like Bartholomew Ogbeche and Adam le Fondre but among all his new signings ahead of the 2020-21 Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL), the biggest is undoubtedly that of Hugo Boumous, and the creative midfielder brought to light what Lobera’s men are eyeing this season.

“We want to play beautiful football and I think that this is what we will try to achieve with our coach Sergio Lobera and my team-mates. This is what we are working on in the pre-season,” Boumous told goal.com ahead of his side’s opening encounter against NorthEast United FC on Saturday.

Boumous scored 10 goals and provided 11 assists last season with FC Goa and that performance earned him the Hero of the League award. Lobera, then Goa head coach, played a crucial role in Boumous’ phenomenal season. And the Frenchman expressed his gratitude towards the head coach for having been instrumental to his success.

“The fact that he gives me a lot of confidence allows me to express myself on the pitch in the best possible manner. This is best for me and also the team, because my first target is to help my team shine,” said Boumous.

The 25-year-old also shed light on his team’s preparations and said getting all three points will be at the top of their agenda. “It can be a big test against NorthEast because it's the opener and we didn't get a lot of time to prepare ourselves. The pre-season has been very special [unique] with the restrictions.

“At the same time, it has been a short time to work together. I think we have 19 new players. So it's difficult, in a short time to know each other very well. To create competition on the pitch is also very important.

"So we don't know what we can expect but one thing we can be sure of is that we will be ready. We will be 100 per cent motivated to get the three points," he said.