Maxi Moralez signs new deal with NYCFC

New York City FC have re-signed Maxi Moralez through the 2022 season with an option for an extra year.

The Argentine playmaker was eligible for free agency this winter but has penned a new deal with the NYFC that'll see him play a sixth season with the club.

Moralez had been occupying a Designated Player (DP) spot but has now moved under that threshold, giving the MLS Cup champions some valuable breathing space on their roster.

“We are absolutely delighted that Maxi has signed a contract extension," said NYCFC sporting director David Lee in a club press release.

"Since arriving at the Club in 2017 he has been an integral part of this Club , both on and off the field, and him staying at the Club was one of the main priorities of this off-season. He will always have a very special place in the history of this Club after being so instrumental in bringing us our first piece of silverware. "

Moralez has been among the best playmakers in MLS during his time in the league. The 34-year-old has 29 goals and 53 assists to his name in 155 appearances for NYCFC across all competitions.

In 34 combined regular-season and Playoff appearances in 2021, Moralez notched four goals and 13 assists as NYCFC won MLS Cup for the first time - their first ever piece of silverware.

"I am very happy, and my family is happy too which is the most important thing to me," Moralez said. "This was what we were always looking for, to try to continue with NYCFC, especially after finishing a beautiful year.  

“We’re in one of the best cities in the world. I’ve been here five years now, the people have treated me marvellously, our fans have always shown me their affection. I feel very fortunate to be here longer at a club and city that feels like home. I'm already looking forward to what this group can achieve together next season. We all want to have another incredible season.”

Moralez revealed his satisfaction in winning MLS Cup, but promised fans he and his teammates are not done yet with a big 2022 campaign ahead.

“To have finished the objective that we set ourselves at the start of the year is very satisfying - to have won the Cup was a privilege and something I will never forget,“ he continued.

"I want to thank our fans, to the board, to David Lee, Brad Sims , and Ronny Deila that made it possible for me to continue on another year at the club. I want to thank the people that helped me and will continue to help me and that did everything possible for me to renew. Obviously to our fans, hopefully they enjoy their holidays, and next year we can continue to win trophies together.”  

NYCFC begin their 2022 campaign away at the LA Galaxy on February 27.