Mumbai City FC on Wednesday confirmed the signing of defender Hardik Bhatt on a one-year contract until the end of the 2024-25 season. The 27-year-old returns to the Islanders after a loan stint earlier, in the second half of the 2022-23 season.

Born and raised in Mumbai, Bhatt is a versatile right-footed full-back. He began his professional career with ARA FC in Ahmedabad in 2019. Since then, he has played for Bengaluru United, Hyderya Sports, and Rajasthan United before joining Mumbai City FC in January 2023. Bhatt made four appearances for the Islanders during the 2022-23 season, representing the club in both the ISL and the Super Cup. He was also part of the squad that won the ISL League Winners’ Shield in 2023.

After the end of the 2022-23 season, he returned to Rajasthan United, where he played 14 games in the I-League last 2023-24 season, providing two assists and helping the team stay in the league.

Overall, he has played 47 games across domestic tournaments in India, scoring two goals and registering two assists. He now aims to contribute to Mumbai City FC's targets in the upcoming season.

Hardik Bhatt said: "I am delighted to be back with Mumbai City FC. The club holds a special place in my heart, and I am honoured to wear the jersey again. It's a privilege to be part of a team that consistently raises the bar by winning titles, and I am looking forward to contributing to the team's success in the upcoming season."

Petr Kratky – Head Coach, Mumbai City FC, said: "We are excited to have Hardik back with the club. He is a Mumbai native who has been with us before, and he is committed to improving his game and helping us move forward."

Ashish Pradhan, Ricky Shabong pen contract extensions with Punjab FC

ISL side Punjab FC on Wednesday also announced that they have extended the contracts of midfielders Ashish Pradhan and Ricky Shabong.

While Pradhan has signed a two-year extension, Shabong’s contract sees him with the club for three more seasons till the end of the 2027 season.

Pradhan made his ISL debut last season, featuring in Punjab FC’s first-ever ISL game against Mohun Bagan Super Giant. He featured in 17 matches for the side.

Shabong also featured in the Punjab FC’s opening game but an injury ruled him out for majority of the campaign. He returned in the second half of the season and became a crucial member of the starting eleven under Staikos Vergetis.

Punjab FC finished eighth last season, impressing in their debut ISL season and coming close to reaching the playoffs.