New York City FC announced today that the Club has acquired Steven Mendoza on loan from Brazilian side Corinthians until the end of the 2016 season with an option to purchase. Mendoza has received his P1 visa and is eligible for selection in Sunday's Home Opener against Toronto FC at Yankee Stadium.
Mendoza, a 23 year-old Colombian attacker, joins after a season on loan with Chennaiyin FC, which saw him win the Indian Super League Title, as well as securing the Golden Boot (13 goals) and the Hero of the League award.
Prior to his stellar season in India, Mendoza made 25 appearances for Corinthians, scoring 4 goals and helping the Club to finish the season as national champions. The player started his professional career in his native Colombia, making over 80 first team appearances during spells at Envigado, America Cali, Cucuta Deportivo, and boyhood club Deportivo Cali from 2010 to 2014.
“Everyone kept telling me that it’s a team that is forming and coming together really well.” Mendoza told NYCFC.com. “Patrick Vieira is someone who wants to win. I’ve talked with the Head Coach and I am very excited by the confidence he has in me.”
“I’m a fast player. I like to get involved in a lot of plays and help the team from a wide position. People will always see the maximum from me. This is a very exciting move and I can’t wait to play for the first time. ”
New York City FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna said:
“I think Mendoza will be an exciting player to watch and will bring further pace and creative ability to the squad. He has good experience in Brazil with Corinthians and has played abroad in India - so he also has experience playing outside of South America. We are confident that he will adapt well to MLS and be an important player for us moving forward.”
Head Coach Patrick Vieira said:
“First of all, Mendoza brings additional pace up front and is really good in the 1v1 situations. Technically he’s a fantastic player and can score goals. He’s another young talented player that we add to our roster and he will be really important for us this season. ”
