New York City FC announced that the Club has acquired Miguel “Mikey” Lopez from waivers. Per league and team policy, terms of the deal will not be disclosed. Lopez has joined the Club’s pre-season training camp in Fort Myers, Florida.
Lopez, a 22-year-old midfielder, was selected 14th overall by Sporting Kansas City in the 2013 SuperDraft. Lopez has made 14 appearances for Sporting Kansas City since 2013. The midfielder was loaned to USL Pro Affiliate Orlando City in 2014 and then Oklahoma City Energy in 2014-2015.
Prior to turning professional, Lopez was a standout at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, leading the Tar Heels to the 2011 NCAA Division 1 Men’s Soccer Championship in addition to collecting ACC Freshman Player of the Year honors. Lopez also collected 17 caps for the United States U-20 National Team from 2012-2013.
“I’m really excited for this opportunity” said Lopez. “I’m thankful that Patrick and Claudio showed confidence in me and offered me this opportunity. I cannot wait to play in front of our fans at the Yankee Stadium, all the players have told me that it’s a great atmosphere.”
“I’m a never say die player. I will fight for every ball and give 100% at all times. The fans will come to expect this type of hard defensive work from me and that I will do everything in my power to keep that zero on the scoreboard.”
New York City FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna believes Lopez will be a good fit for the Club.
“Lopez is a young player that has a lot to prove and I know he’s excited to compete for a starting place in this team,” said Reyna.
“He’s been in the national team set up and is now very motivated to establish himself in MLS. He will add depth and another option in the defensive midfield role. We feel he will fit into our club well and the way we want to play.”
Head Coach Patrick Vieira praises Lopez’s skill set.
“Mikey knows the league well which is a real benefit for us,” said Vieria. “He’s only 22 years old but has been around the league since he was 19,”
“I think he brings something to the group that we currently lack. He’s comfortable in possession, but his strength is closing the opposition down and winning the ball back for the team. He will cover a lot of ground; every coach wants players like this on their team. It’s great that he’s been able to join up with the group in Florida already and is ready to start training.”
