Ronald Matarrita did not have to consider his future for long.
The Costa Rican international defender has signed a contract extension with the club he joined in 2016 and is now determined to continue his progression as a player with NYCFC.
READ:Ronald Matarrita Extends Contract with NYCFC
Matarrita endured a difficult 2017 with injuries but now he’s fit and focused on the challenges in front of him, ahead of a huge year in his young career.
The 23-year old told NYCFC.com: “I am very happy to re-sign with New York City, it’s the team that has given me the strength to raise my level as a football player and as a professional. I am very happy with the decision I have taken.
“It was an easy decision being that here I have found many things that have helped me become a better player. I am very happy with my teammates, the coaching staff, the front office and without a doubt the fans that have made me feel at home, this made the decision easy to make.
“To represent NYCFC is a commitment, I believe it’s an honor to wear this jersey. I am doing my best to represent it the best possible way, I always try to give 100 percent on and off the pitch and believe that in my time with the Club I have been able to accomplish that.
“The 2017 season was a bit complicated for me due to injuries. Obviously, it was a little frustrating watching the games from the sidelines but I am very happy with the work my teammates did while I was injured.
“Now I am 100 percent fit, I was able to recover at the end of the season and was able to put in good performances."
Matarrita returned from his foot injury in the final weeks of the campaign and shone in the narrow MLS Playoffs defeat to Columbus Crew SC.
Although the postseason didn’t go the way City wanted, Ronald is still sure that the team is trending upwards and can be confident ahead of Year Four.
“To me, the team was excellent in the 2017 season in comparison to the year before, it was an incredible growth,” he reflected.
“Without a doubt we will try to do much more than what was achieved this year in 2018.”
Ronald is currently in Costa Rica for the offseason but he’s keeping in shape in the knowledge that, with the FIFA World Cup in Russia around the corner, a strong start to the 2018 season is essential.
READ:Rodney Wallace on Costa Rica's World Cup Group
Ronald added: “In my free time I’ve traveled to Costa Rica to enjoy some time with my family and friends in the city where I was born. Obviously, I will be focused on next season and will try to maintain myself in good physical condition.
“My plans for next year are to do the best job possible with New York City, the club that has given me everything. Also, to be called up to the national team for the World Cup and have an excellent tournament for my country.”
