The 25-year-old midfielder completed his loan from FC St. Pauli and agreed to a new deal with the MLS club.
1:01 AM
New York City FC announced that homegrown midfielder James Sands has returned from his loan with German side FC St. Pauli and signed a contract extension through the 2029-30 season, with an option for 2030-31.
Sands, 25, made his first appearance and start for St. Pauli against Eintracht Frankfurt in January 2025. Over a season-and-a-half with the Bundesliga club, he made 35 appearances across all competitions, recording one goal and one assist.
During his time in Germany, Sands helped St. Pauli reach the quarterfinals of the DFB-Pokal. He started in all four of the club's matches in the tournament and provided an assist in St. Pauli's second-round home win over TSG Hoffenheim.
"We couldn't be more excited to welcome James back to New York City," said NYCFC Sporting Director Todd Dunivant. "James has been an important part of this club's history, has proven himself in this league, and now brings top European experience. As we continue to build our core roster, James will be a vital member of our group moving forward."
Since debuting with NYCFC in 2017, Sands has made 143 appearances across all competitions for the club, tallying one goal and five assists. The American international's return adds depth to the club's midfield as it continues roster construction for the remainder of the season.
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