New York City FC: Gary Mackay-Steven adds depth for MLS Cup run

Gary Mackay-Steven is the latest offensive weapon to arrive at New York City FC. He adds depth to a strong attack that could inspire a run at the MLS Cup.

Let the summer transfers begin. New York City FC wasted little time in starting their summer business as they inked Gary Mackay-Steven to a deal on Monday. The Scottish winger comes to Major League Soccer from Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership.

This move comes after weeks of rumors that Mackay-Steven was on his way to New York after his contract with Aberdeen had come to an end. Portsmouth appeared to be another possible choice for the 28-year-old as reports had him linked to the EFL League 1 side.

In the end, Mackay-Steven decided to join the MLS side as he hopes to help the club reach the playoffs and make a run at an appearance in MLS Cup.

The majority of Mackay-Steven’s career has been spent in Scotland. He has played for Aberdeen, Dundee United and Celtic, making 202 career appearances in the Scottish top flight, scoring 37 goals and registering 43 assists.

His time with Celtic resulted in 10 goals and 11 assists in 63 career appearances. This time spent with the famous Scottish club came to an end in a disappointing fashion as his production slowed during his final months with the club. Although his time came to an end at Celtic, he continued to be productive for Aberdeen where he scored 16 goals in 72 appearances.

Mackay-Steven has ties to another MLS star in Johnny Russell. The two played together at Dundee United. New York City FC will hope they can get similar production out of Mackay-Steven as we’ve seen with Russell in Kansas City.

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NYCFC have not shied away from signing offensive players this season. They made a statement when they signed Alexandru Mitrita from Romania for a hefty fee in the winter window and have now looked to reinforce their attack with Mackay-Steven.

Another possible reason for this signing is the looming departure of Jesus Medina. The young designated player has not been in the line-up for quite some time and one has to wonder if his future at the club is coming to a close.

Mackay-Steven is going to get playing time with NYCFC and perhaps Medina’s potential exit is one of the reasons for his move. He may start off as a regular substitute and rotational player but, if he can start to produce regularly, he may quickly make himself a mainstay in the week in week out starting XI.

NYCFC should be pleased to pick up Mackay-Steven. He brings a wealth of experience playing in the SPFL and it will be exciting to see what he can do in MLS.