With Frank Lampard out of the picture going forward, New York City FC are reportedly eyeing a younger designated player to replace him.
According to ESPN FC, “New York City FC is preparing to reduce the average age of its squad by targeting younger recruits rather than an aging superstar to fill the designated player slot vacated by Frank Lampard’s departure.” With Lampard’s contract expiring at the end of this season, the City Football Group announced that he would not be retained going forward. This is a chance for NYCFC to get a talented young player.
New York initially used their three designated player spots on older players in David Villa (currently 34), Andrea Pirlo (currently 37), and Frank Lampard (currently 38). With Lampard now gone, they have an opportunity to get a player in their prime to come into their side and make an impact for years to come. City Football Group will have until the start of next season to scout players and figure out which prospect they want to target.
It is kind of ironic because according to MLS Transfers, before Jason Kreis was fired before the 2015 season, “he was proponent for Ganso in 2015 and was shut down.” Now Patrick Vieira will have the luxury of an open DP spot where he can work with CFG to bring in a talented player. With the influence of David Villa and Andrea Pirlo, it should be fairly easy to bring in a high-quality player.
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Not to mention that the club is located in New York City, which is a huge city where numerous players would love to move to. New York City FC have the money and resources to bring in a designated player from anywhere around the world. It is likely that they will go after a midfielder, likely attacking/#10, to strengthen their midfield and attacking threat.
NYCFC had their most successful season in team history this past year as they made it to the second-best record in the Eastern Conference at 15W-10L-9D. They made it to the semifinal round of the playoffs as well. Unfortunately for them, Toronto FC made easy work of New York by beating them 7-0 after two legs.
The designated player spots for Major League Soccer teams are very important. They are the most expensive players on the team and when clubs miss on a target, it can set them back a few years. NYCFC will have a lot of work ahead of them but if they make the right decision with their next DP, they can continue to compete in the East for years to come.
Once the winter transfer window opens in January, expect rumors to heat up surrounding New York City FC. A new big name is likely heading to MLS and New York City. It will be interesting to see who they bring in.