Mumbai City FC has revealed that forwards Iker Guarrotxena and Ayush Chhikara are facing a premature end to their participation in the 2023-24 Indian Super League (ISL) season due to injuries. Guarrotxena and Chhikara sustained knee injuries in recent matches against FC Goa and Punjab FC, respectively.
In an official statement shared on X, the club confirmed the unfortunate news, stating, “INJURY UPDATE #MumbaiCity can confirm that forwards Ayush Chhikara & Iker Guarrotxena have sustained knee injuries and will miss the remainder of the 2023-24 #ISL10 season,” on Saturday.
Chhikara entered the pitch as a substitute during the second half against FC Goa but had to be substituted himself in the 85th minute due to his inability to continue. Despite being just 21 years old, Chhikara played a significant role in Mumbai City FC’s Kalinga Super Cup campaign, scoring three goals in four appearances. He made four appearances in the ISL this season.
Guarrotxena, who joined Mumbai City FC during the winter transfer window, immediately made an impact on the team, contributing three goals and two assists in six games. During the match against Punjab FC, he played a crucial role in the team’s comeback in the second half, scoring twice. However, he suffered his injury while successfully scoring the second goal. Despite the injury, he continued to play briefly before eventually being substituted.
Mumbai City FC, currently leading the table with 36 points from 18 matches, is scheduled to face NorthEast United FC at home on Tuesday. The absence of both forwards will undoubtedly pose a challenge for the team during this crucial stage of the season.