New York, N.Y., November 15, 2022 – New York City Football Club today announced that defender Tayvon Gray has signed a new contract through 2025 with an option for 2026.
The Bronx-native is the second Homegrown to sign a contract extension with the Club after James Sands. This season Gray has become one of the league’s most promising defenders, appearing in 25 matches and helping the team to eight clean sheets while adding two assists. Gray also played the full 90 minutes in the Campeones Cup against Mexican side Atlas FC where the Club claimed its second-ever trophy.
Defender Tayvon Gray said: “I feel amazing honestly, it’s a big step for me. It’s a reward for all of the hard work I’ve put in the last couple of years, but my goal is to continue to keep getting better and to stay hungry. To be honest, this feels like a new beginning for me, it feels like it’s a reset button, everything starts from zero, so I just have to get after it now.
“I am excited that I get to continue my time here in New York. As everybody knows, I was born and raised in The Bronx, nothing beats that. Growing up in the City and signing my second contract for NYCFC is an amazing feeling. I am so grateful to the Club for believing in me and helping me grow both on-and-off the pitch. My one piece of advice is to go for your dreams, don’t let anybody turn your dreams down. I would have never imagined winning MLS Cup in my second season, what makes you think you can’t.”
Originally signing as a Homegrown with the Club in 2019, the defender was thrusted into the scene in 2021 after defender Anton Tinnerholm suffered a season ending injury. Previously, having only two professional starts, Gray was inserted into the starting XI for the remainder of the season. The defender played an instrumental part in the side’s MLS Cup run last season, playing every minute in all four playoff games and contributing with an assist in the Eastern Conference Semifinal.
Sporting Director David Lee said: “We are delighted that Tayvon has signed a new contract, this speaks to both his development and performances with the First Team since signing professionally. He has already shown himself to be an impactful player on an MLS Cup winning team, while we know there is even more development to come, our focus will continue to be maximizing his potential.
“It is also another proud day to celebrate all the fantastic work done by our Academy to identify and develop players who are capable to play at the highest levels. The continued impact that local players have on the success of our First Team is an important part of our Club.”
Transaction: New York City Football Club Defender Tayvon Gray signs contract extension
Name: Tayvon Gray
Position: Defender
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 174 lbs
Date of Birth: 08/19/2002
Age: 20
Hometown: Bronx, NY
