New York City FC signs Jonathan Shore to Homegrown contract

On Thursday, New York City FC announced the club signed Jonathan Shore to a Homegrown contract.  The youth player is just 15 years old, and is the latest of young players to sign with the team.

Jonathan Shore is now a New York City FC player

The midfielder joined the New York City FC academy when he was ten, and has been in the youth system ever since.  He even made two appearances for NYCFC II last season, and will likely see more playing time with the MLS NEXT Pro side this year. 

Sporting Director David Lee had this to say about the new Homegrown signing:

"We are delighted that Jonathan has signed his first professional contract and we are excited that he has committed to continue his football development with the Club over the coming years. Jonathan is an intelligent, creative and dynamic central midfield player who has performed at a high level consistently throughout his time in our Academy and has impressed in his opportunities to train and play with the First Team."

- David Lee

While Shore will unlikely make a first team appearance this season, there is no doubt he will eventually make his debut in the next few years.  NYCFC has shown they are willing to sign players before they are ready for the first team.  As such, it reveals the club’s commitment and faith in their academy system.  It also illuminates the belief that young players like Shore will continue to develop at a high level.

Moreover, when NYCFC invests in the youth, then other kids will notice, and want to join the academy.  They will see a pathway to the first team, and be inspired to work hard when Homegrown players are signed.  This will aid with the continuance of a strong academy, and hopefully convince the best of the best to develop with the club.  Even if they have European aspirations, they will see that starting with NYCFC is the way to go. 

The investment in the youth and Homegrown players is great for New York City FC.  There is no guarantee Shore will be successful, but as always, there is the chance he can become the next big name and superstar player.