Don Garber, the Major League Soccer commissioner, has accused Manchester City of error in judgement over Frank Lampard’s deal to New York City. Although both Manchester City and New York City are owned by Sheikh Mansour, Garber dismissed rumors of New York City being a farm house for the English giants.
a If there was an error in judgment on this, it was not just announcing that he would come in July and figuring out how to manage the start of the season, no different than what happened with Robbie Keane or Thierry Henry or David Beckham,a Garber, told Sports Illustrated.
a I dona t think it is a farm team for Man City,a he said. a With this decision, while I can understand people will try to think that, the level of investment that this ownership group is making with the club is massive and it rivals some of the bigger clubs around the world.
a This kind of decision is not something in my view that in any way says this is a farm team for Man City. I dona t believe in all my dealings with them that they have led us to believe thata s true.a
Following Frank Lampard’s loan deal extending untill the end of this season, New York City’s fans have revolted over this scenario. Lampard, was highly involved in New York City’s promotion and a lot of fans brought season tickets to see their favorite player.
a I could understand why their fans are unhappy, and I do believe [NYCFC] will work hard to build back that trust. Theya ve started that process already. I sensed this was coming and it didna t surprise me when they ultimately made their decision.
a Youa re dealing with a very unusual set of circumstances. Frank has become one of the most important players in Man Citya s season and hea s scored critical goals to have them tied for first place in the Premier League.
Lampard, has been pivotal for City and perhaps that is why Man City have extended his loan stay. Lampard has already scored seven goals for the Citizens and is expected to bag even more, over the course of this campaign.
a I think ita s important to say this: These guys [NYCFC] are very committed to MLS and committed to New York …. They have made an unprecedented investment in MLS and New York City, and they are going to continue to do so.a
a They were faced with a difficult decision. Ia m going to be supportive of all our ownership groups, making them aware of my point of view. But we need to work hard now to move forward and recognise that Frank will be joining this team in July along with other Designated Players, who throughout the history of the Designated Player program have almost always joined in July.” Garber concluded.
