Claudio Reyna named director of football at New York City Football Club

The 39 year old played 111 times for the US national team and featured for Manchester City from 2003 to 2007.

Claudio Reyna, left, played 111 times for the United States including the 2002 World Cup. Shaun Botterill / Getty Images

Former Manchester City and United States international midfielder Claudio Reyna was named as the first director of football for new Major League Soccer (MLS) team New York City Football Club, the team confirmed yesterday.

The new club, which will start playing in 2015, was announced on Tuesday as being the 20th club for the MLS and has been formed as a result of a partnership between English Premier League side City and the New York Yankees.

The National had revealed the 39 year old Reyna, who played 111 times for the US national team and featured for Manchester City from 2003 to 2007, was in line for the job yesterday.

"Our commitment is to build a team that will win and will play good football that all New Yorkers can be proud of," said Manchester City chief executive Ferran Soriano.

"We needed someone to lead this in New York, a director of football, the most important employee. He is a New Yorker, understands New York football very well. He not only played in Europe but played for Manchester City.

Reyna, who is the new club's first employee, said the role was perfect for him and that he was thrilled to receive the opportunity. "I think it is very clear that New York City deserves a team, needs a team and we aim to honour that in the highest way possible," he said.

Reyna had been working as US Soccer Youth's technical director and stood down from that position yesterday to take up his role with the new franchise.

"Claudio helped modernise the approach to youth player development in this country and put us on a path to success," said US Soccer President Sunil Gulati.

"We appreciate all his hard work and dedication. We certainly understand this is a unique opportunity for Claudio and his family, and wish him continued success."

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