By Andrew Warshaw
January 2 – The increasing practise of experienced European, especially Premier League, stars moving across the pond to Major League Soccer for a final career hurrah has come under fresh scrutiny as a result of Frank Lampard’s controversial decision to temporarily snub New York City.
The 36-year-old former England international, one of the finest midfielders of his generation, signed for New York in July – presumably on hefty wages – after being released by Chelsea, describing the move as “ticking all the boxes”.
He subsequently decided to join Chelsea’s main domestic rivals Manchester City, the defending Premier League champions, in what was supposed to be a short-term deal to boost City’s squad during the MLS off-season.
But City didn’t anticipate the extent of Lampard’s contribution (he scored the winning goal against Sunderland yesterday) and his stay has now been extended to the end of the English season.
That means he could miss the first three months of the MLS campaign, infuriating New York fans who have publicly criticised the decision as showing a lack of respect.
New York open against fellow newcomers Orlando on March 8 and in a statement, the independent supporters group Third Rail denounced Lampard and City for changing the goalposts.
“Many fans, including our members, decided to support the team, committed to season tickets, and bought merchandise under the impression that Frank Lampard would be playing for New York City Football Club, not Manchester City,” the group said in a statement.
“Many of those fans are rightly outraged by this decision, and we support any course of action they take to voice their discontent over this decision.”
The New York franchise is jointly owned by Manchester City’s parent company City Football Group and Major League Baseball franchise the New York Yankees but the fans made it abundantly clear this doesn’t mean the Premier League champions automatically have first call over their sister club.
“Any suggestion that NYCFC is in any way secondary to Manchester City FC, regardless of the source, and are disappointed that City Football Group would give such an appearance.”
New York City admitted they do not know now when Lampard will join.
“His exact starting date with New York City FC will be confirmed as the EPL and MLS seasons unfold. All parties remain in ongoing dialogue to create the best outcome for all.”
New England Revolution coach Steve Nicol, who used to play for Liverpool, said the renegotiated deal will send out the wrong message. “It’s a disaster for that new franchise, a disaster for MLS,” he told ESPN.
New York could in theory insist Manchester City’s Abu Dhabi owners honour the contract Lampard signed. Alexi Lalas, the man who signed David Beckham for LA Galaxy, made clear where he felt the balance of power lay as he tweeted “The Mothership has spoken. #NYCFC” in response to the announcement.
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