Team Mumbai officials at the ISL player drafts. © ISLTeam Mumbai have completed the signing of Bundesliga veteran Manuel Friedrich, following the completion of his stint at Borussia Dortmund. The acquisition of Friedrich will make him the most experienced defender in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL).The 34-year-old has played in the Bundesliga for most of his career, representing Mainz 05, Werder Bremen, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund. He will be the first German footballer to play in India and the only player in the ISL to have played in the 2013-2014 UEFA Champions League. He has also made nine international appearances for his country.“I am delighted to play for the Mumbai club and be part of the exciting inaugural season of the ISL. Playing in Asia has always been on my mind and I look forward to being in India and doing my best for the squad. The presence of a number of skilled Indian and international players will make the contest very exciting indeed.”Manuel FriedrichThe co-owner of Team Mumbai, Ranbir Kapoor, was delighted with the team’s latest addition and said, “Manuel Friedrich is unquestionably a highly experienced international centre back and we are thrilled to have him on board. As a defence stalwart, he will be a critical asset to the team. To top it all, Manuel is passionate about football in Asia. We are delighted to have him amidst us and welcome him on board.”The talented central defender, who began his career at SG Guldental 07 before making his professional debut with Mainz, was also excited about his new innings and said, “I am delighted to play for the Mumbai club and be part of the exciting inaugural season of the ISL. Playing in Asia has always been on my mind and I look forward to being in India and doing my best for the squad. The presence of a number of skilled Indian and international players will make the contest very exciting indeed.”
