Manchester City sign third defender of January transfer window with new left-back confirmed | OneFootball

New York City FC and Manchester City have made history this week via the transfer of Christian McFarlane from the Major League Soccer side to the Etihad Stadium.

The official confirmation of a deal struck between the two City Football Group-affiliated sides brings an end to long-standing links between the Premier League champions and the highly-rated England youth international.

Back in December 2022, it was reported by some corners of English media that Etihad Stadium officials were ready to sign New York City FC’s left back Christian McFarlane, then aged just 15-years-old.

Such was the interest that City went on to invite the teenager talent to their City Football Academy training ground and discussed a possible move in 2024, following on from speculation that both Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund had already been rejected.

In July 2024, it was widely claimed that Manchester City were closing in on deal to sign McFarlane while the 17-year-old had rejected bids from unnamed German clubs as well as Premier League rivals Brighton & Hove Albion in favour of an Etihad switch.

Now, in official confirmation of the agreement, New York City FC have announced its sale of Christian McFarlane to Manchester City, while the Major League Soccer side are due to receive a sell-on percentage if the player is sold by the Etihad Stadium club in the future.

The MLS side also point out the history-making nature of the move, as Christian McFarlane becomes their first Homegrown player to have gone through the club’s development pipeline and join a Premier League club.

McFarlane joined NYCFC’s academy back in 2018 aged just 11-years-old, before going on to represent the club at every age category, and progressing through Major League Soccer (MLS) NEXT Pro, making his first team debut in 2024.

Speaking on the transfer himself, McFarlane told New York City FC’s official website, “I’m incredibly honoured to represent New York City FC on a global stage.

“This club has provided me with amazing opportunities and invaluable lessons that I will carry throughout my career, including my time at Manchester City and beyond. It’s been a privilege to grow here and be part of such a special organisation.”

He continued, “I’m also excited about the next chapter with Manchester City. Visiting their facilities and seeing the players up close is a dream come true, it’s something every young player aspires to achieve.

“I know this move will be pivotal for my development, and I’m ready to embrace the challenge and make the most of this opportunity.”

For now, it remains to be seen where Christian McFarlane will be placed within Manchester City’s current squads, and whether a first-team place or Academy development plan will be put into action for the player upon his arrival in east Manchester.