Thiago departs NYCFC via Expansion Draft | OneFootball

The last time Thiago Andrade played for New York City FC was in 2023. The player first went on loan to Club Athletico Paranaense in April of that season before subsequently going out on loan to Shenzhen Peng City FC in 2024.

It was clear Thiago's time with NYCFC had ended after the team sent him out on loan two seasons in a row. There were some questions about whether the club was going to give the Brazilian another chance with a new coach on the horizon. The Pigeons picked up his option for 2025, leading to some confusion amongst the fans.

Money was another reason why it was thought his option was picked up. Thiago could be traded or sold to another team. However, everything became clear on Wednesday night.

Thiago leaves NYCFC via the Expansion Draft

Major League Soccer's newest team, San Diego FC, had their Expansion Draft that evening. The team could pick five players from any of the other 29 teams. The league released the available players for selection and teams could protect 12 players. In addition, some Homegrown and Generation Adidas players could not be selected.

As a result, San Diego selected Thiago as the fourth pick. He will not be going to California though, for he was immediately traded to Toronto FC. The newest team received a 2025 first-round draft pick. They can get $250,000 in General Allocation Money and will earn a sell-on percentage for a future transfer. NYCFC then received $50,000 in GAM because Thiago was picked.

In other words, the Bronx team picked up his option to earn some money from the player. It was not a lot, but at least it was something.

It is interesting that Thiago is going to Toronto. There was always the thought the winger had the potential to be something great. Still, he was not too successful with both of his loan deals. He had more playing time in China and scored three goals, but he should have done better. Toronto is taking a chance on him when they need to revamp their roster. The team finished in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, missing the playoffs.

Hopefully, the change in scenery will be good for Thiago. It is sad it never worked out at NYCFC. There were some good moments though and he was a part of the 2021 MLS Cup Championship side. The forward scored 12 goals in 71 appearances, so he was not a total bust either.

Now, fans know why Thiago's option was picked up. Can he be the player NYCFC fans thought he would be for Toronto? Only time will tell.