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The move has finally arrived: Valentín Castellanos is officially leaving New York City FC. While a move was expected this summer, the destination was in question until César Luis Merlo confirmed the Argentine would be making the transfer to S.S. Lazio. As such, it was deemed official when the Pigeons announced their star player would make the move to the Serie A side.
The Italian club is paying NYCFC about 15 million Euros, or 16.7 million Dollars, for Castellanos. Additionally, add-ons are expected and the contract is a five-year deal. Likely, the competition will be high for the forward, especially since his new club finished second in the league in the previous season.
Moreover, he has the competition with Ciro Immobile, and there are some questions as to whether this was the correct move for his development. Castellanos needs playing time, and there is no guarantee he will get the necessary minutes. As always, he has to put in the work no matter which club he would have signed for; minutes are not free.
The move for Valentín Castellanos from NYCFC is bittersweet
It is bittersweet that Castellanos is officially no longer a part of NYCFC. The permanent move is well-deserved, and he worked hard in Spain last season to show other clubs he is worth the price the Pigeons wanted. It will also be exciting to see whether he is able to succeed in Italy, and blossom into a star.
On the other hand, he will be missed. Sure, it has been a year now since he left New York. However, he was on loan, so it felt like he was still a part of the club. Now, his time with the Pigeons is done, at least for now. Everyone is grateful for what he did for the team. Without the 2021 Golden Boot winner, NYCFC would have likely never won the MLS Cup that season.
Castellanos stated the following about his move:
"I’d like to sincerely thank everyone at NYCFC and City Football Group for always looking after me so well and for making this move possible. It’s like being part of a family. I’d also like to thank the fans who have always believed in me and supported me every single game. I will always be an NYCFC fan. The Club and the amazing people there have played such an important role in my career and my life. It has always been a dream of mine to play in Europe and in the Champions League and I couldn’t be more excited."Valentín Castellanos
Undoubtedly, New York City FC will follow their beloved star as he takes the next step in his career. Hopefully, the Argentine finds success at his new club, and scores plenty of goals too.