Mikey Lopez Joins New York City FC
New York City FC announced that the Club has acquired Miguel Lopez from Sporting Kansas City. Lopez will join the Club training in Fort Myers, Florida.
Lopez, a 22-year-old midfielder, was selected 14 th overall by Sporting Kansas City in the 2013 SuperDraft. Lopez has made 14 appearances for Sporting Kansas City since 2013. The midfielder was loaned to USL Pro Affiliate Orlando City in 2014, where he made nine appearances. He then was loaned to Oklahoma City Energy in 2014-2015 and made nine appearances there.
“I feel really good. I’m really excited for this opportunity. I’m thankful that Patrick and Claudio were confident in me and offered me this opportunity. I cannot wait to become a part of the vibrant feel in Yankee Stadium and play in front of these amazing fans. I will work very hard to the very end. I’m going to give my 100% at all times, Lopez said.
New York City FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna believes Lopez will be a good fit for the Club – Lopez knows the league well, but is a young player that has a lot to prove and I know he’s excited to compete for a starting place in this team,” said Reyna. “Lopez has been in the national team set up and is now very motivated to establish himself in MLS. He will add depth and another strong option in the defensive midfield role. We feel he will fit into our club well and the way we want to play.”
Head Coach Patrick Vieira praises Lopez’s skill set. “Mikey knows the league well which is a real benefit for us,” said Vieria. “He’s only 22 years old but has been around the league since he was 19,” said Vieira. “I think he brings something to the group that we currently lack. He’s comfortable in possession, but his strength is closing the opposition down and winning the ball back for the team. He will cover a lot of ground; every coach wants players like this on their team. He’s been able to join up with the group in Florida already and is ready to start training with his new teammates.”
Prior to turning professional, Lopez was a standout at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, leading the Tar Heels to the 2011 NCAA Division 1 Men’s Soccer Championship in addition to collecting ACC Freshman Player of the Year honors. Lopez also collected 17 caps for the United States U-20 National Team from 2012-2013.
