Today New York City Football Club announced that it has signed Forward Mounsef Bakrar from Croatian side NK Istra on a contract through 2026 with an option for 2027.
The 22-year-old will join NYCFC pending the receipt of his ITC and a P-1 Visa. The forward joins the ‘Boys in Blue’ as part of Major League Soccer’s U22 initiative.
The Algerian has made 33 appearances at the domestic level in Croatia for NK Istra netting eight goals and tallying three assists across 33 appearances. Bakrar has also featured in the CAF Champions League and Confederations Cup with Algerian team ES Sétif scoring one goal in 13 matches across both competitions.
Sporting Director David Lee said: “We are delighted to welcome Mounsef to New York. Mounsef is a talented and dynamic forward who enjoyed a fantastic first season in Europe and we are excited for the impact he will have on our roster, while also adding quality and depth as we enter the latter stages of the season and toward the Playoffs.
“With Mounsef’s experience at Club level and with the Youth National Team in Algeria, coupled with his experience in Croatia, we believe that the move to Major League Soccer will be an excellent next step in his career. While at only 22-years of age, Mounsef’s best years are ahead of him, we look forward to helping continue his development.”
Bakrar has featured for the U23 Algerian National Team on six occasions, contributing with one goal across all competitions.
Forward Mounsef Bakrar said: “I am thrilled to be joining New York City. It’s a Club that plays exciting attacking football that suits my style of play. I look forward to playing in this great city and hope to contribute on the field and help this team fight for trophies.
“Joining a Club with the reputation of developing players, I will continue to work hard every day to grow as a professional both on-and-off the field. It’s an honor for me, my family and my country to represent this Club and play in Major League Soccer. I am excited to get started, meet the coaches, my teammates, staff, and the passionate New York fans.”
Everyone at the Club would like to welcome Mounsef to New York.
Transaction: New York City Football Club acquires Forward Mounsef Bakrar from NK Istra on a permanent contract through 2026 with an option for 2027 pending the receipt of his ITC and a P-1 Visa. Mounsef joins New York City Football Club as part of Major League Soccer’s U22 initiative.
Name: Mounsef Bakrar
Position: Forward
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 176lb
Date of Birth: January 13, 2001
Age: 22
Birthplace: Sétif, Algeria
Last Club: NK Istra
How Acquired: Permanent transfer through the 2026 season with an option for 2027
