Midfielder James Sands returned from a loan with Rangers FC and signed a contract extension with New York City FC through the 2027 season.
Financial terms were not disclosed by NYCFC.
Sands, 22, joined Rangers FC in January 2022 and was in line to stay with the Scottish club until June, however he fell out of the rotation under coach Michael Beale, who was hired last fall. Sands played in the 2021-22 Europa League final and was part Rangers’ Scottish Cup-winning team.
“It was a priority for us to try and ensure James returned to New York this season,” NYCFC sporting director David Lee said. “Despite opportunities to continue his career in Europe, we are pleased that we’ve been able to reach an agreement on a new contract and convince James that this is the right place for his continued career progression. We know James’ ambition remains to play at the highest levels in Europe and we will continue to support him with his career aspirations.”
Sands, a New York native and NYCFC homegrown player, recorded two assists in 65 games (63 starts) with the MLS club.
“I am excited to return to New York,” Sands said. “As someone who grew up in New York and played for local youth teams and the NYCFC academy, it was and continues to be a great honor to represent this club. NYCFC has had a tremendous impact on my development, the club’s support of my initial step in Europe and continued understanding of my career goals has been very important to me.”
–Field Level Media