Gary Mackay-Steven Moves To New York City

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The toing and froing from Gary Mackay-Steven has finally come to an end, with the 28-year-old forward moving to the United States to play for MLS side New York City.

Gary Mackay-Steven said on his move:   “I’m delighted to finally sign on the dotted line.

“I can’t wait to hit the ground running and make my debut in the blue shirt. I can’t wait to show what I can do to the fans in Yankee Stadium.

“The lure of playing in America and in MLS is really attractive to me. It’s always been a draw for me, it’s hard to say no. I can’t wait to get started.

“You see NYCFC from afar and the way they play football is the way it should be played. A player like me, coming into an atmosphere when the philosophy is in place, it is going to be enjoyable.

“I want to learn as much as I can and hopefully hit the ground running.

“I like to take people on in the 1 v 1 situations. I like to make things happen and to get fans off their seats.

“Hopefully I can do that in New York and show what I’m all about. I feel everything is in place to win a trophy. A squad like New York, with the structure in place, it’s really in the team’s grasps and hopefully I can chip in with goals and assists.”

New York manager, Domenec Torrent said:  “Gary brings the qualities that this club is looking for in an attacking player. He’s very good on the ball and likes to run at players in 1 v 1 situations.

“When he is on the wing, he delivers a quality ball into the box, but can also cut inside and cause the opponent’s defenders a lot of trouble. He is another talented attacker that I can now choose from.”

He took to Instagram and posted a message to supporters that said: “After a lot of speculation, my future is finally clear.  I start a new chapter in my life but I have to thank the manager, the staff, my teammates and all of the supporters at Aberdeen FC.  An amazing club that I’ve loved every minute being part of.  Last season was very frustrating personally and I would of loved to have contributed more but I know I’m leaving with the club in great hands both on and off the park.  I look forward to seeing all of the young boys fulfil their potential and the team to go onto greater heights.  All the very best and good luck.  GMS ❤️”

Claudio Reyna, New York’s sporting director added,  “Gary is a player we have been tracking for some time and we’re excited to add him to our squad. He’s an out-and-out winger that can play on both sides of the pitch and strengthens our attacking options.

“We have a core group of experienced players who form the spine of our team and Gary possesses the same leadership qualities that already exist in our locker room.

“He’s played in big games in Europe and has been part of title-winning teams and we’re really excited to have him join NYCFC.”

Up until last week Derek McInnes was hopeful of keeping Mackay-Steven, although Portsmouth were also keen on the player.  New York came back in with a fresh approach which sealed the move.GMS

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