New York, N.Y., March 3, 2023 – New York City Football Club (NYCFC) today announced that it has acquired Midfielder Santiago Rodriguez as a Designated Player from Montevideo City Torque through the 2027 season.
The Uruguayan will don the number 10 jersey and will be available for selection against Chicago Fire FC. Rodriguez is now a U.S. Permanent Resident and will not occupy an international roster spot.
Sporting Director David Lee said: “We are excited to welcome Santi back to NYCFC on a permanent basis. Over the last two seasons Santi developed into one of the most impactful attacking players in MLS and quickly became a very important part of our group. He has an extremely bright future ahead of him and at just 23 years old, we know he will continue to develop and improve.
“Bringing Santi back to the Club was a priority for us and we are delighted that we have been able to finalize this deal. We’re looking forward to welcoming him back into the group and supporting his development over the years ahead.”
The Uruguayan arrived to New York in June of 2021, on loan from Montevideo City, and had an immediate impact on the team scoring three goals and providing one assist across 21 regular season matches. A fixture in the lineup, Rodriguez played all four playoff games in the historic 2021 MLS Cup run, scoring in the Eastern Conference Semifinal against New England.
Rodriguez said: “I am delighted to be coming back to New York City. It’s a City and a Club that I have fell in love with. We have had many successes the past couple season and I hope to continue to bring happiness and silverware to the Club and our fans.
“I will continue to work hard and grow as a professional every day on-and-off the field and do my part in helping the Club achieve its goals. I am excited to be reunited with the New York City faithful and play in front of them again.”
2022 was a breakout year for the midfielder helping the Club claim Campeones Cup while scoring seven goals and contributing with 19 assists across all competitions, including four assists in the MLS Cup Playoffs en route to back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals.
Transaction: New York City acquired Midfielder Santiago Rodriguez from Montevideo City Torque on a Designated Player contract through the 2027 MLS season.
Name: Santiago Rodriguez
Date of Birth: January 8, 2000
Birthplace: Montevideo, Uruguay
Position: Midfielder
Weight: 137lb
Height: 5’ 6”
