New York City FC traded their fourth overall pick to the Chicago Fire for Jack Harrison of Wake Forest, the first overall pick of the 2016 MLS SuperDraft. Also included in the deal, New York City FC will give the Chicago Fire allocation money.
Harrison, a 19-year old attacking player, joins the Club after a standout Freshman season at Wake Forest University that saw him score eight goals and tally 11 assists on the way to winning the ACC Offensive Player of the Year award. Prior to his time in North Carolina, the former Manchester United academy product won the 2014-15 Gatorade National Player of the Year award in his final season at Berkshire School in Sheffield, Mass. The Bolton, England native also played with New York City FC Youth Affiliate, Manhattan Soccer Club, for the past three years.
New York City FC Head Coach Patrick Vieira said, “He’s a modern winger. He can come inside, he can go on the line, he can score goals, and he’s really good in the 1-v-1 situations. He’s the type of modern winger than you like to have in the team. He’s young, but I’m sure he will have a massive part to play in our squad. He’s enthusiastic, he’s full of energy, and this is what we want.”
Sporting Director Claudio Reyna added, “We’re very excited. Not only is he a player for the future, but we think he can contribute right away in an attacking position. He’s a great kid. He’s been in the New York area for the last three years at Manhattan Soccer Club playing for one of our Youth Affiliates. It’s a great story, but more than anything we got a fantastic kid and an excellent player.”
On the biggest day of his career thus far, Harrison said, “I am really excited. I’m looking forward to working with Patrick Vieira and working with some great players. It’s great to be back in Manhattan. I’m happy to be back in New York City, it’s been my second home since moving to the United States, so I’m really excited.”
“The fans at Yankee Stadium are just amazing. I’ve been to matches there – so I’m greatly looking forward to playing in front of them and hopefully giving them lots to cheer about. I’m just so excited to be a part of this Club.”
