Punjab FC Announces the Signing of Ivan Novoselec and Mushaga Bakenga

by FC August 4, 2024

Punjab FC has made significant moves to strengthen their squad for the upcoming 2024-25 season by signing Croatian defender Ivan Novoselec and Norwegian forward Mushaga Bakenga.

These strategic signings are expected to enhance the team’s defensive and offensive capabilities, positioning them as strong contenders for the new season.

Player Profiles

Ivan Novoselec

• Nationality: Croatian
• Position: Central Defender
• Previous Club: FC Istiklol (Tajikistan)
• Achievements: Ivan played a pivotal role in FC Istiklol’s triumph in the Tajikistan Higher League.
• Career Journey: Ivan began his professional career at NK Varazdin in Croatia. He then played for DNS Zavrc in Slovenia before moving back to Croatia to represent clubs such as Lokomotiva Zagreb, NK Lucko, NK Varteks, NK Sracinec, and Medimurje. His performance at FC Koper in Slovenia earned him a spot at FC Istiklol.

Mushaga Bakenga

• Nationality: Norwegian
• Position: Forward
• Previous Club: Apollon Limassol FC (Cyprus)
• Age: 31
• Career Highlights: Born in Trondheim, Norway, Bakenga started his career with SK Nationalkameratene, where he showcased his talent by averaging 50 goals per season in his youth. His impressive performances drew interest from European giants like Bayern Munich and Manchester City. He signed with Norwegian top-flight club Rosenberg BK at the age of 15 and made his debut at 17. Bakenga has also played for Club Brugge (Belgium) and had loan spells at Cercle Brugge, Esbjerg, Eintracht Braunschweig, and Molde. He returned to Rosenberg in 2017 and later played for Tromso, Ranheim, Odds Ballklubb, Stabaek, and Tokushima Vortis (Japan). At Apollon Limassol FC, he scored eight goals and provided four assists last season. Overall, he has scored 109 goals in 362 appearances.
• International Experience: Bakenga has represented Norway from the U15 to U21 levels, including scoring a hat-trick for the U19 team against Moldova U19 in April 2011.

Club’s Vision

Punjab FC’s Technical Director, Nikolaos Topoliatis, expressed his excitement about the new signings, stating, “We have two very exciting and experienced players in our ranks for the season. Both players will help us to take our game to the next level and will be crucial for our success in the season. Ivan’s defensive strength and experience, combined with Mushaga’s proven goal-scoring abilities, will further strengthen our team and I wish them the best for the upcoming season.”

Looking Ahead

With the inclusion of Ivan Novoselec and Mushaga Bakenga, Punjab FC aims to enhance their performance and make a significant impact in the 2024-25 season. Fans are eagerly anticipating the contributions of these seasoned players, hoping they will bring success and elevate the team’s overall play.

The club’s strategic moves signal their commitment to achieving higher standards and success in the upcoming season. The additions of Novoselec and Bakenga are expected to play pivotal roles in achieving these goals, providing a balanced mix of defensive solidity and attacking prowess.

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