New York City FC has a new center back.
Earlier this morning, the club announced it signed Thiago Martins, a 26-year old defender from Brazil, to a three-year contract with an option for 2026. Martins will be one of NYCFC’s Designated Players.
NYCFC reports that Martins is already with the club in Cancun, and could be available for the first leg of the 2022 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League pending work permits.
The 6’ 1” defender will wear the number 5 for NYCFC.
It is the first significant signing this offseason by NYCFC sporting director David “No Drama” Lee, and the first defender ever signed to a Designated Player slot by the club.