Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber has announced that one of the most well known soccer clubs in the world, Manchester City of the Premier League, and the New York Yankees, arguably the most famous franchise in professional sports worldwide, have teamed up to purchase the MLS' 20th team. The new club will be called the New York City Football Club, and is expected to take the pitch in 2015.
The league reports that Manchester City will be the majority owner, but Yankees president Randy Levine will have an active role in the team. Hal Steinbrenner, part owner of the Yankees said in a statement, "We are pleased to be associated with this major move by MLS to increase its presence in the New York market and to enhance the opportunity for New York soccer fans to enjoy high-level play in their own city."
The New York City Football Club is looking into options for a temporary venue in order to begin play in 2015, but the ultimate goal is a new stadium in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg expressed his excitement about the announcement, saying, "Soccer is one of the world's most exciting and popular sports, and it should be played on the world's biggest stage -- in New York City," New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg said in a statement. "New Yorkers are the greatest sports fans in the world, and they will welcome a Major League Soccer franchise with the full-throated and loyal support they are famous for."
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