Striving to build a formidable outfit with world-class football players on board, the Mumbai Franchise of the Indian Super League (ISL) today announced the signing of Germany's Manuel Friedrich for the inaugural season of the upcoming league. Friedrich comes to the Mumbai Franchise with over 15 years of professional experience as a top quality centre back, packed with 413 appearances at various levels of football.

Friedrich has played international football for Germany and has been a critical part of famouse Bundesliga clubs Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, Werder Bremen and Mainz 05. He will be the first recognisable German footballer to play in India and the only team member in the ISL to have played 2014 UEFA Champions League football. Known to be a strong defender and acknowledged for his aerial duels, the 34-year-old will be the backbone of the Mumbai squad's defense strategy. With his abilities, he will also be an asset to the team during set pieces due to his aerial skills.