New York City FC: Top 3 signing options for a brighter 2021
Here are three options New York City FC could look to sign for the 2021 season
With the 2020 regular season officially over, New York City FC still have at least one more game this year with the CONCACAF Champions League. Still, they must start preparing for the 2021 season. So far, there have not been many changes regarding the roster. The Pigeons also find themselves with two open Designated Player spots.
Joe Scally is on his way to Germany in January, and though not expected, if the right offer comes calling for James Sands, then NYCFC will undoubtedly listen. Plus, Brad Stuver is out of contract, and Gary Mackay-Steven and Gedion Zelalem had their contracts denied. Although, the club is negotiating with the latter two about a possible return.
Therefore, the club should go out and sign a mix of veteran and young players. Truthfully, while there are many positions NYCFC could boost, another established striker or center-forward should be the top priority.
As good as Héber is, the Brazilian will be out to start the season, and Valentín Castellanos would be the only other option. Even more, he is normally a winger, so having another striker would give Ronny Deila options to start the season. It would also increase competition, which will cause players to increase their work effort and quality.
Similarly, there are countless younger players that could be signed, even on loan. NYCFC should obviously look toward young players who are already playing in their clubs, but also within the youth teams of the top clubs in the world. Since they have a connection to Manchester City FC, the Pigeons could look there to bring someone on loan for the year.
With a multitude of possibilities available, here are three options New York City FC should strive to sign prior to the 2021 season.
3. Leigh Griffiths
If there is any player that would be a long shot and probably impossible for New York City FC to bring over, then Leigh Griffiths would be the answer. A player with Celtic F.C. since 2014, the striker has scored 118 goals in 242 appearances.
While he has had his ups and downs throughout the years, there is no doubt the Scottish international has the talent to score. He is also quick and direct in his style of play, which is something NYCFC could use in a striker.
A highly prolific player, the 30-year-old played under Ronny Deila while he was manager at Celtic. He did struggle to get playing time at first during Deila’s two years there, but Griffiths eventually established himself. He even had his best season under Deila; he scored 40 goals in 51 appearances in all competitions for the 2015-2016 season. This illuminates he can play under NYCFC’s current coach, and score goals as well.
As mentioned, Griffiths has his ups and downs throughout his career, and sometimes fitness, injury, and even personal reasons had sidelined him. But, when he is fit, he is focused and a natural goal scorer. He takes chances when the opportunity is provided. This alone would be a reason to try and lure him away from Celtic. Alas, such a move would be hard, unless the Scottish player finds little playing time this year.
So far, he has found little playing time, but that was due to a calf injury. Nevertheless, New York City FC should still try, due to his past with Deila and his goal-scoring prowess. He would be someone talented enough to fill the Designated Player spot, and maybe that, and a change of scenery, would be able to persuade him to a new league, and a new team.