TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Extension
New York City FC announced on Tuesday that left back Ronald Matarrita has signed a contract extension via the use of Targeted Allocation Money, ensuring that the Costa Rican international will return for his third season with NYCFC.
“I am very happy to re-sign,” said Matarrita in a club release. “It’s the team that has given me the strength to raise my level as a football player and as a professional.
“Now, I want to do the best job possible with New York City, the club that has given me everything. Also, to be called up to the national team for the World Cup and have an excellent tournament for my country.”
The 23-year-old endured an injury-marred 2017, suffering ankle and metatarsal problems that limited him to just 696 minutes over 12 league appearances, but remains one of the most talented left backs in MLS.
He played a key role in NYCFC’s run to their first ever MLS Cup Playoffs appearance last season, chipping in a goal and five assists in 2016, and ranked 16th in MLSsoccer.com’s 2017 24 Under 24 countdown.
“He’s still really young and he still has some parts of his game that he needs to work on to improve to get even better,” said City head coach Patrick Vieira, “but I’m glad that he will have the chance to do that with us here in New York.
“This competition for places in every position is really important and that’s why I’m so happy that Ronald has signed this new contract.”
