Mumbai City FC rope in Ljungberg as marquee player

Mumbai City FC Thursday announced the signing of the former Sweden and Arsenal footballer Freddie Ljungberg as their marquee player for the inaugural season of the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL).

Boasting a wealth of experience having plied his trade at clubs such as Arsenal, West Ham United and Halmstads BK, Ljungberg, through his presence, will bolster the midfield options of the Mumbai based ISL franchisee.

Ljungberg is primarily remembered for being an active member of Arsenal's 2003-04 side that won the English Premier League unbeaten. The team was dubbed the "Invincibles" for their heroics. In 2008, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger placed Ljungberg 11th in Arsenal greatest 50 players list. He has earned 75 caps for Sweden scoring 14 times.

"Mumbai City FC presents a great opportunity to play in India and I'm glad to be part of the team in the first ISL season. Talented Indian players together with the likes of Nicolas Anelka, Manuel Friedrich, Pavel Cmovs and others will make the team an exciting outfit. I look forward to contributing to the team's success," Ljunberg said.

Team owner Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor expressed his delight at signing Ljunberg.

"Mumbai City FC is immensely proud to sign a player like Freddie Ljungberg. As a former Sweden captain and Arsenal great, the world football fraternity understands what he is worth and I'm sure Mumbai's football fans will be delighted with his presence in the team. He will enrich us with his talent and experience," he said.