Mumbai City FC are delighted to announce Rahul Bheke has signed a one-year contract extension with the Club, extending his stay with the Islanders until the end of the 2023-24 season.
The 32-year-old played a pivotal role in Mumbai City's highly successful 2022-23 campaign where the Islanders secured the Indian Super League Winners’ Shield in record-breaking fashion. Bheke put in resolute performances through last season in a backline that conceded a mere 21 goals in 20 league games and captained the Islanders on 15 occasions across all competitions.
The veteran stalwart also etched his name in Mumbai City and Indian football folklore when he scored the winning goal against Iraq’s Air Force Club in the 2022 AFC Champions League helping the Islanders become the first team to win a game at Asia’s premier club football competition.
The Mumbai-born defender came up ranks at Mahindra United and started his career with Air India in 2012. He went on to represent Mumbai Tigers, Mumbai FC and East Bengal in the I League before beginning his ISL journey with short stints at Kerala Blasters and FC Pune City. Bheke turned out for Bengaluru FC for four seasons before joining Mumbai City FC in August 2021.
Rahul Bheke said:
“In the last two years, I have lived the dream every young kid dreams – I have represented and captained my hometown club, created history with my teammates at the highest possible level, won a league title but most importantly, I’ve cherished a bond like no other with the Mumbai City family. The dream doesn’t stop here. Everyone at Mumbai City, including myself, is committed to building on the success of the last two years. I have a responsibility to my city and to our fans, and I am ready to get going for what will be an exciting season ahead.”
Head Coach Des Buckingham said:
“Rahul is a leader within our group and is an ever consistent performer and top professional. Being from Mumbai, he understands the fabric of the Club and what it means to represent Mumbai City. His experience and willingness to continue learning and improving has been a key part to our success so far. I am delighted Rahul has extended his journey with us and he is another important piece to our puzzle as we continue to build for the upcoming season.”
