PATRICK VIEIRA HAS been appointed as the new head coach of MLS side New York City FC.
The former Arsenal midfielder has agreed a three-year deal and will start his new role on 1 January, 2016.
Vieira, the head coach of Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad since June 2013, replaces Jason Kreis at Yankee Stadium.
“I am delighted to take up the role of head coach of New York City FC,” said Vieira via the club’s official website.
“To work with this squad, with [sporting director] Claudio Reyna and [assistant coach] Rob Vartughian and the fantastic support team that is in place, is an exciting prospect for any coach.
“This established football set-up, together with a passionate and loyal fan base, located in a special city which I know well, makes for an unparalleled opportunity that I am delighted to seize with both hands.
“I cannot wait to get started.”
Reyna added: “Patrick was a legendary player and has all the characteristics required to make a fantastic head coach.
“His exemplary drive, passion and dedication have always marked him out as a rare talent and all of those qualities, alongside his understanding of the game, make him a natural choice.
“Patrick is a natural born leader. He has played under some of the best managers in the world and experienced different leagues and playing styles, enjoying success everywhere he has been. We believe he can bring that knowledge and experience to take New York City FC forward in MLS.
“We are looking forward to him joining us in the coming weeks.”
City director Brian Marwood backed Vieira to become a significant success and stated that efforts to find his replacement with the academy are underway.
“Patrick is a special individual and a rare talent,” he said.
“I have no doubt that he will thrive at New York City FC and all of those who work with him in Manchester wish him all the very best in his new role.”
“Passionate and loyal fan base”. Wasn’t this team created a year ago?
In fairness, a hape of people in the Bronx and North Manhattan have jumped onto the team because of the Yankees connection. Like in one year, they have as many fans as the existing New York team, the Red Bulls, which is fairly admirable commercially. That being said, most the NY/NJ hardcore fans despise the new team. Best of luck to Viera though, NYCFC are shockingly shit for the squad they have, hopefully he’ll do something with them.
Very true, was in he Bronx myself a few weeks ago in October and a lot of bars have NYCFC scarves hanging and random paraphernalia around, they have really taken to the team
The Man City Arabs own that club as well don’t they.
Manchester City’s Head Coach for the Elite Development Squad sounds like a Delboy job title for Rodney
They’re just slowly training him in to take over the big job