TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Signing
New York City FC have signed Scottish winger Gary Mackay-Steven after his contract with Aberdeen FC expired, the club announced Monday.
Mackay-Steven, 28, had four goals and two assists in 19 Scottish Premier League appearances this season.
“I’m delighted to finally sign on the dotted line. I can’t wait to hit the ground running and make my debut in the blue shirt. I can’t wait to show what I can do to the fans in Yankee Stadium,” Mackay-Steven said in a club statement. "The lure of playing in America and in MLS is really attractive to me. It’s always been a draw for me, it’s hard to say no. I can’t wait to get started."
Mackay-Steven broke through with Dundee United, where he had 27 goals and 36 assists in 131 appearances. His form earned a transfer to Celtic, where he won three league titles with the powerhouse before moving to Aberdeen.
“Gary is a player we have been tracking for some time and we’re excited to add him to our squad," said NYCFC sporting director Claudio Reyna. "He’s an out-and-out winger that can play on both sides of the pitch and strengthens our attacking options. We have a core group of experienced players who form the spine of our team and Gary possesses the same leadership qualities that already exist in our locker room. He’s played in big games in Europe and has been part of title-winning teams and we’re really excited to have him join NYCFC.”
He has made two appearances for the Scottish national team.
“You see NYCFC from afar and the way they play football is the way it should be played," Mackay-Steven said. "A player like me, coming into an atmosphere when the philosophy is in place, it is going to be enjoyable. I want to learn as much as I can and hopefully hit the ground running."
