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NYCFC transfer star midfielder Santiago Rodriguez to reigning Copa Libertadores champions Botafogo for a reported $17 million

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New York City FC

New York City FC have transferred club superstar Santiago Rodriguez to Brazilian powerhouse Botafogo for an undisclosed fee, labeled to be the second-highest in club history, and also one of the highest in MLS history. <a href="https://x.com/tombogert/status/1890865006423491058" target="_self">Various reports</a> have suggested the fee is around $17 million.Rodriguez signed with the club in 2021 on loan from Montevideo City Torque before joining on a permanent transfer as a Designated Player in 2023. Across 144 appearances, the midfielder scored 34 goals and provided 28 assists across all competitions for the Pigeons. He played a crucial role in their MLS Cup victory in 2021.“Santi has established himself as one of the best attacking midfielders in MLS. His development across the last four years with the club and his recent performances resulted in interest from teams around the world,” said New York City FC Sporting Director David Lee. “We have a proud track record of supporting our players’ journeys to help them maximize their career ambitions. While we will miss Santi’s infectious personality in the locker room and his impact on the field, we wanted to support Santi’s wishes while also making sure the club received appropriate compensation for a player of his caliber.“We’re incredibly proud of the impact that Santi had throughout his time here. From joining us on loan in 2021 to becoming our No. 10 and Designated Player, Santi has played a pivotal role in our success, helping us lift both the MLS Cup and Campeones Cup. Joining The Century Club and becoming a key figure in our team speaks to his quality and consistency,” Lee added. “The fee we received will be one of the highest ever for an outgoing transfer in MLS history and is a reflection of Santi’s hard work and growth, as well as the strength of our player development pathway through City Football Group,” said Lee.He added, “The move provides us with the opportunity to reinvest in our roster, giving us additional flexibility, including an open Designated Player spot, as we continue to build around an already strong core of players under Head Coach Pascal Jansen’s vision. We thank Santi for his contributions to New York City FC both on the field and in the wider community. We will all be following his time in Brazil closely and wishing him all the best in this next chapter of his career.”

WHAT HAPPENED?

Rodriguez had a breakout 2024 season, scoring 16 goals and recording 10 assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. He departs MLS as one of the most talented players to don the NYCFC kit, and is just one of 13 players to ever record over 100 appearances for the club.“Looking back, so many moments and incredible memories have shaped my time here. From the start, New York City FC has felt like home, and I’ve been fortunate to share this journey with amazing teammates, staff, and, most importantly, the fans. Their support and love have meant everything to me, and I’m truly grateful,” Rodriguez said. “After five years with this club, saying goodbye is not easy. New York City FC has been a defining part of my career and life, and I will always carry these memories with me. While this chapter is ending, the love and connection I’ve felt here will never fade. Thank you for everything -- this city and this club will always have a special place in my heart.”At Botafogo, he will join the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, who are also set to compete in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and are paired with MLS side Seattle Sounders in the Group Stage of the competition.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

NYCFC's club-record sale was Valentin "Taty" Castellanos to Serie A side Lazio for a reported fee of around $17M. MLS never disclosed the official transfer fee for the Argentine, but<a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38047629/nycfc-complete-transfer-castellanos-lazio-record-fee" target="_self"> reports </a>suggested it was anywhere from $16.7M to $17.3M.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Pigeons begin their 2025 MLS season Saturday evening against Lionel Messi's Inter Miami.

WHAT NEXT FOR NYCFC?

NYCFC transfer star midfielder Santiago Rodriguez to reigning Copa Libertadores champions Botafogo | Goal.com

The Uruguayan departs for the second-highest transfer fee the MLS side has ever seen

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