Gabriel Segal joins Hapoel Tel Aviv Football Club on loan deal

On Labor Day, New York City FC announced they had sent Gabriel Segal out on loan. The forward is being loaned to Hapoel Tel Aviv Football Club of the Israeli Premier League. He will stay there until June 30, 2024. Subsequently, he would not be available until the second half of the following season.

NYCFC sends Gabriel Segal out on loan

Many moves were made this summer, but this one is somewhat surprising. Segal has not been playing for the club, but if anything, it would have made more sense for him to play for NYCFC II. Moreover, the Pigeons lack in the striker department. Mounsef Bakrar is now the only striker on the roster. It did not make sense that Segal was not on the bench since Major League Soccer resumed.

Of course, the club sees Talles Magno as a number nine. This is despite the obvious fact he is a winger. Alas, Segal was not getting a lot of playing time, so hopefully, he can find minutes in Israel.

It does seem that NYCFC intends on his return. The idea is that he is going out on loan to continue his development. Sporting Director David Lee had this to say about the young player's move:

"This is a great opportunity for Gabe to continue his development in a highly competitive European competition. Gabe has had a strong rookie season with us and showed potential for the future, so we are excited for him to have the opportunity to gain First Team minutes with Hapoel Tel Aviv during the 23/24 season. We’d like to thank Gabe for his contributions to the Club this season and wish him the best in Israel."

- David Lee

This is a move that makes sense and also does not. It is also possible Segal asked for a loan deal since he needs more playing time. It is quite possible he was given the opportunity to play in the MLS Next Pro side, but asked to go elsewhere for first-team minutes.

At the same time, New York City FC still may see his potential and wants him to play. The club can review his future when he returns next summer.