New York City Football Club today announce that it has signed Defender Birk Risa from Norweigian side Molde FK through 2025 with an option for 2026. The 25-year-old will join the Club pending the receipt of his ITC and P-1 Visa.
The Norwegian has made 95 appearances for Molde scoring three goals and providing six assists as a defender across all competitions including the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Europa Conference League, wining the league and the domestic cup along the way. Risa rose through the ranks of Germany’s FC Köln’s youth system, eventually making his Bundesliga debut for the Club in 2017. Risa returned home and went on to make 84 appearances for Nordic side Odds Bk tallying 10 assists along with five goals.
Sporting Director David Lee said: “We are thrilled to welcome Birk to New York City. Birk is a left-footed center back whose ability to play from the back will fit into our system and style of play. Birk is entering his prime and will bring quality and depth to the center back position as we turn our attention to the second half of the season and toward playoffs.
“In addition to leadership and a team-first mentality, Birk brings European experience having played in the Norway’s top division for multiple years, in addition to the UEFA Europa League and Europa Conference League with Molde. We look forward to welcoming Birk and hope to get him integrated into the squad quickly.”
Risa has also represented Norway at the national youth level making 56 appearances and contributing with 17 goals across U15 to U21. Captaining the side during its UEFA U21 Euro Qualifying matches in 2019/2020.
Defender Birk Risa said: “I’m very happy, it’s a dream come true to play in the Major League Soccer. I’m really looking forward to getting started, to being part of the team and building something at this great Club. I like to play good football, keep possession, play together as a team, and be leader both on-and-off the field.
“It was an easy decision, to come to New York, it’s the City that never sleeps. I love experiencing new cultures and will put my effort to meeting the people of New York, especially our fans at Yankee Stadium.”
Everyone at the Club would like to welcome Birk to New York.
Transaction: New York City Football Club acquires Defender Birk Risa from Molde FK on a permanent contract through 2025 with an option for 2026 pending the receipt of his ITC and a P-1 Visa.
Name: Birk Risa
Position: Defender
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 174lb
Date of Birth: February 13, 1998
Age: 25
Birthplace: Stavanger, Norway
Last Club: Molde FK
How Acquired: Permanent transfer through the 2025 season with an option for 2026
