NYCFC adds goalkeeper Greg Ranjitsingh, raising questions about the signing

Heading into the 2025 season, New York City FC appeared to have the goalkeeper position solidified. Luis Barraza was traded, leaving the Pigeons with three on the roster: Matt Freese, Alex Rando, and Tomás Romero. Freese is the starting keeper, so it was assumed that Rando and Romero would battle for the backup role.

Similar to Gotham FC, nobody thought the Boys in Blue would bring in another keeper. But like the Bats, NYCFC had other ideas.

On Tuesday, the club announced they have signed Greg Ranjitsingh to a two-year contract, with an option for another year. The newest goalkeeper joins the squad after spending the last few years with Toronto FC.

Why did NYCFC sign Greg Ranjitsingh?

The 31-year-old has been somewhat of a journeyman in his soccer career. He was a starter for Louisville City FC in the USL but has mainly served as a backup at all of his Major League Soccer teams since 2019. Since Ranjitsingh was able to learn under numerous coaches, he brings knowledge of wealth to NYCFC.

At a first glance, he appears to be a solid signing. He could potentially lock down the backup role, but the addition of Ranjitsingh is puzzling. The Pigeons already have three keepers on the roster, so what does this mean? Rando could potentially stay with NYCFC II again, for there were four keepers signed for 2024 and he was considered an Off-Roster Homegrown player.

Moreover, perhaps a loan deal for Rando or Romero is in the works. This could be a possibility, especially for Rando. He was getting experience with the MLS Next Pro team, but the USL Championship would be a step up for the Homegrown.

At the same time, Ranjitsingh's signing does raise concerns. Tom Bogert from GiveMeSport is reporting that Freese is "getting strong interest from German and Dutch clubs." While it was thought the keeper would eventually receive interest from overseas as long as he continued to play well, it was not thought that interest would happen now. Bogert said no offer has been made, but the latest goalkeeper addition makes one wonder whether Freese could leave this season.

Notably, if players can go to one of the top European leagues, then they should be provided the opportunity to do so. MLS is growing, but it is not a top league like the Bundesliga or La Liga. However, it has been seen time and time again that many keepers go over and find themselves struggling for playing time. If Freese is to leave, then he should go to a team where he will be the starting goalkeeper.

Hence, Ranjitsingh joining NYCFC does raise questions. Again, it is possible the team will have four goalkeepers on the roster for 2025. Maybe the team wanted to add him because he is a great backup and saw the opportunity. No matter the reason, Ranjitsingh is now part of the roster and will create competition for the backup role.