Patrick Vieira has left his role at Manchester City to become the new manager of Major League Soccer outfit New York City FC.
The former Arsenal skipper has held the position of head coach of City’s Elite Development Squad since June 2013, guiding the EDS to the Premier League International Cup, but he has agreed a three-year deal to take over New York City.
Veira will now oversee some of the best players to have graced the game such as Chelsea legend, Frank Lampard, and Italy midfield maestro, Andrea Pirlo.
He will travel to New York on Tuesday to meet with the players ahead of taking over on January 1.
“I am delighted to take up the role of head coach of New York City FC. To work with this squad, with Claudio Reyna and Rob Vartughian and the fantastic support team that is in place is an exciting prospect for any coach,” Vieira said.
“I would also like to thank everyone at Manchester City and most of all Brian Marwood, my coaching and support team and of course the wonderful young men who make up the Elite Development Squad, for all of their support and commitment and for making my time here so stimulating and enjoyable.
“They are good footballers and good people and I know that they will continue to go from strength to strength in their careers.”
Speaking of the appointment, MD of City Football Services, Brian Marwood, said: “Patrick is a special individual and a rare talent.
“He is the ultimate leader but at the same time, the ultimate team player. His time in Manchester as a player, in football administration and as the head of the Elite Development Squad is testament to his capacity to succeed in all he does and of course his career prior to joining Manchester City more than speaks for itself.
“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.
“Work now begins in Manchester to find a successor to continue Patrick’s fantastic work with the EDS, a squad which we consider as a crucial stepping stone to first team football. Indeed this season has already seen several of the team’s members play at first team level in both Premier League and domestic Cup competitions.”
The New York City FC is a franchise between Manchester City and baseball giants, New York Yankees.
Founded in 2013, it uses the 33,000 Yankee Stadium as its home ground.
