ICP Networks MD Matt Archer won’t be the only American at Manchester City next season – thanks to a sensational deal to partner the New York Yankees.
The world’s biggest baseball club will join forces with the former Premiership champions in a bold step designed to penetrate the American soccer market.
City bosses revealed the new deal on Tuesday in a move which is arguably the boldest yet by any European football club in the USA.
The new team will be called New York City Football Club and hope to kick off in time for 2015 season – in a new purpose build stadium.
ICP Networks, MD Matt Archer said: “It is fantastic news for City and just shows the level of the club’s ambition – and is an example of their incredible resources.
“We all know the American market presents a huge opportunity to unearth hidden talent and from a branding perspective is a fantastic way of strengthening City’s position.
“We have already seen the incredible work City have undertaken in New York with the development of their City@School program which includes the roof top pitch at the Lexington Academy in New York City’s Spanish Harlem.
“From a personal point of view, speaking as someone who was born and raised in America, it will be also be great to meet a few fellow countrymen at the Etihad Stadium!”
ICP Networks are one of the largest suppliers of networking equipment in the world. They are based in South Manchester and have recently joined forces with City.
They sponsored City’s Premiership clashes played Everton and then West Bromwich Albion – allowing their customers a rare glimpse behind the scenes at The Etihad.
Don Garber, MLS Commissioner said: “We proudly welcome two of the most prestigious professional global sports organizations to Major League Soccer.
“This is a transformational development that will elevate the league to new heights in this country. The New York area is home to more than 19 million people, and we look forward to an intense crosstown rivalry between New York City Football Club and the New York Red Bulls that will captivate this great city.”
Manchester City chief executive Ferran Soriano added: ““New York is a legendary sports town, as well as a thriving global city with a rapidly expanding soccer fan-base.
“We are thrilled to contribute to the energy and growth of New York City Soccer. In the Yankees, we have found the absolute best partner for developing a world-class sports organization and a winning team that will carry the New York City Football Club name with pride.”
Manchester City will be the majority owner of the new club. As an investor, the Yankees will be an active member of the ownership group.
The two organisations have an existing commercial relationship through Legends Hospitality, LLC, an international entertainment, hospitality and marketing organization.
Hal Steinbrenner, managing general partner of the New York Yankees, added: “We look forward to the opportunity to work with Manchester City to create something very special for the soccer fans of New York – and to bringing another terrific team to this city for all sports fans to enjoy.”
The team is likely to be based at a new stadium near Flushing Meadows in Queens. While this is being built a temporary location will be identified.
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