Mumbai City FC Strengthen Attack With Signing Of Greek Striker Nikolaos Karelis

Mumbai City FC have announced the signing of Nikolaos Karelis on a one-year contract until the end of the 2024-25 season.

Karelis began his journey with Greek side Ergotelis at age 16, making his debut on the final day of the 2007–08 Greek Super League season and becoming the youngest player ever fielded for Ergotelis in a league match. He has showcased his skills extensively and successfully for Greek clubs like Panathinaikos, PAOK, and, most recently, Panetolikos, whom he captained. Outside Greece, he has featured in other top European countries, including stints with Genk (Belgian Jupiler Pro League), ADO Den Haag (Netherlands Eredivisie), Brentford (English Championship), & Amkar Perm (Russian Premier League).

The 32-year-old has also made his mark in the UEFA Europa League group stages, featuring in them both for Panathinaikos and Genk, and scoring four goals in 12 appearances. Throughout his club career, spanning 361 games, Karelis has been known for his all-round game and contributing in the final third, with 103 goals and 29 assists.

Before featuring for the Greece Senior National Team, Karelis regularly played and scored for the national youth teams, netting 15 times in 43 appearances. In his full international debut with the senior team, he scored against Finland in Helsinki during the UEFA Euro 2016 Qualifiers. He represented his country in 19 matches, scoring three goals.

The 32-year-old Karelis will look to bring his leadership, distinctive playing style, and extensive experience, in his eagerness to contribute to Mumbai City's ambitions for the upcoming season.