After failing to qualify for the play-offs in the last two seasons of the Indian Super League, it seems FC Pune City are determined to turn things around next season. The Maharashtra-based outfit made a big statement of intent after announcing the appointment of former Atletico de Kolkata manager Antonio Habas, who won the Indian Super League in the inaugural season, and also managed to qualify for the playoffs last season.
Sources close to Sportskeeda have revealed FC Pune City are in talks with former Chelsea and Juventus star Adrian Mutu. The 37-year-old signed as a marquee signing for FC Pune City last season, although it’s not clear yet, if he’d be the marquee signing this season too.
The player signed for Romanian side ASA Targu Mures in January on a free transfer, and has made a single appearance till now, but it is believed Mutu is very keen on returning to India, as he pocketed a handsome salary last season.
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Mutu scored 4 goals in 10 appearances last season, but couldn’t help his team qualify for the playoffs. It seems the FC Pune City management have decided to put their faith in him once again.
Retaining Mutu would be a great way to start things, but you’d wonder they need bigger names and maybe younger players from abroad to be more successful next season. Rumors also suggest the former Romanian international could also be offered a coaching role, and there is a chance he could have a limited role on the pitch.
Earlier, reports have suggested FC Pune City were also close to agreeing a deal for Apoula Edel, while they have also managed to sign Arata Izumi, Augustine Fernandes, and Sanju Pradhan.
It appears FC Pune City don’t want to leave any stone unturned next season and want to quickly finalize their signings. In Antonio Habas, they’ve already signed an ISL winning manager, and now they’d be hoping to at least qualify for the playoffs next season.
