Punjab FC Strengthens Squad with Signings of Ivan Novoselec and Mushaga Bakenga

Punjab FC has bolstered its squad ahead of the 2024-25 season by signing Croatian defender Ivan Novoselec and Norwegian forward Mushaga Bakenga. These acquisitions are expected to enhance the team’s competitiveness in the upcoming season.

Ivan Novoselec, a 29-year-old central defender from Varazdin, Croatia, brings a wealth of experience to Punjab FC. Novoselec began his professional career at NK Varazdin, his hometown club, and later moved to DNS Zavrc in Slovenia. 

His career trajectory has seen him play for several Croatian clubs, including Lokomotiva Zagreb, NK Lucko, NK Varteks, NK Sracinec, and Medimurje. Most recently, Novoselec played for FC Istiklol in the Tajikistan Higher League, where he played a pivotal role in securing the league title for his team. His solid defensive skills and experience in international leagues make him a valuable addition to Punjab FC’s backline.

Joining Novoselec is 31-year-old Mushaga Bakenga, a forward hailing from Trondheim, Norway. Bakenga’s football journey began with SK Nationalkameratene in his hometown, where he showed his exceptional talent by averaging 50 goals per season in his youth career. His impressive performances drew interest from top European clubs such as Bayern Munich and Manchester City.

Bakenga made his professional debut with Norwegian top-flight club Rosenborg BK in 2009 at the age of 17. He later signed with Belgian club Club Brugge in 2012, during which he had loan spells with Cercle Brugge, Esbjerg, Eintracht Braunschweig, and Molde. His career has also included a stint in Asia with Japanese side Tokushima Vortis before joining Apollon Limassol FC in Cyprus for the previous season.

Throughout his career, Bakenga has scored 109 goals in 362 appearances, including eight goals and four assists in the last season. His prolific goal-scoring ability and experience on international stages will be a significant asset to Punjab FC’s offensive lineup.

Bakenga’s international career includes representing Norway from the under-15 level up to the under-21 level. Notably, he scored a hat-trick for Norway’s under-19 team against Moldova U19 in April 2011, and later that year, he made his debut for the under-21 team. 

The arrival of Novoselec and Bakenga has been met with enthusiasm and optimism from Punjab FC’s management. 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.”

As Punjab FC gears up for the 2024-25 season, the addition of Ivan Novoselec and Mushaga Bakenga positions the club as a strong contender in the league. With their experience, skill, and ambition, these new signings are expected to play pivotal roles in Punjab FC’s quest for success. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how these players integrate into the team and contribute to its aspirations.