NEW YORK – New York City FC today announced the transfer of midfielder Santiago Rodríguez to Brazilian club Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas. The move marks the club’s second-highest transfer fee, one of the largest in Major League Soccer (MLS) history. Additionally, New York City FC will receive a sell-on percentage if Rodríguez is sold in the future.
Rodríguez’s Legacy: Joining New York City FC in the summer of 2021 on loan from Montevideo City Torque, another City Football Group (CFG) club, Rodríguez quickly became a key player. He earned the title of the club’s ninth Designated Player and wore the iconic number 10 jersey in 2023. Over four seasons, Rodríguez made 144 appearances, scored 34 goals, and provided 28 assists across all competitions. He played a crucial role in helping the team secure its first-ever MLS Cup in 2021 and added to the success with his performance in the 2022 Campeones Cup.
Achievements: Rodríguez joined The Century Club after making 100 MLS appearances, becoming the 13th player in New York City’s history to reach this milestone. He leaves the club ranking second in assists, fourth in goals, and sixth in all-time appearances for the ‘Boys in Blue.’
Sporting Director David Lee’s Remarks: “Santi has established himself as one of the best attacking midfielders in MLS. His development over the past four years and recent performances attracted interest from teams worldwide. We have a proud track record of supporting our players’ journeys to help them maximize their career ambitions. While we will miss Santi’s infectious personality in the locker room and his impact on the field, we wanted to support his wishes while ensuring the club received appropriate compensation for a player of his caliber.”
Lee added, “We’re incredibly proud of the impact Santi had throughout his time here. From joining us on loan in 2021 to becoming our No. 10 and Designated Player, he has played a pivotal role in our success, helping us lift both the MLS Cup and Campeones Cup. Joining The Century Club and becoming a key figure in our team speaks to his quality and consistency.”
“The fee we received for Santi is one of the highest ever for an outgoing transfer in MLS history, reflecting his hard work and growth, as well as the strength of our player development pathway through City Football Group. The move provides us with the opportunity to reinvest in our roster, giving us additional flexibility, including an open Designated Player spot, as we continue to build around an already strong core of players under Head Coach Pascal Jansen’s vision. We thank Santi for his contributions both on the field and in the wider community. We will be closely following his time in Brazil and wishing him all the best in this next chapter of his career.”
Significant Interest: Interest in Rodríguez surged after his best season with the club in 2024, during which he scored 16 goals and provided 10 assists across 40 appearances. His performances and goals in the Leagues Cup carried New York City to the quarterfinals, including an emphatic victory over Mexican powerhouse Tigres UANL. To cap off a memorable season, Rodríguez scored the fastest MLS goal in franchise history with a strike against Nashville just 17 seconds into the match.
Rodríguez’s Statement: “Looking back, so many moments and incredible memories have shaped my time here. From the start, New York City FC has felt like home, and I’ve been fortunate to share this journey with amazing teammates, staff, and, most importantly, the fans. Their support and love have meant everything to me, and I’m truly grateful,” said Rodríguez.
“After five years with this club, saying goodbye is not easy. New York City FC has been a defining part of my career and life, and I will always carry these memories with me. While this chapter is ending, the love and connection I’ve felt here will never fade. Thank you for everything—this city and this club will always have a special place in my heart.”
Pivotal Moments: Rodríguez was instrumental in helping the club win its first championship six months after his arrival in 2021. After 21 appearances, three goals, and an assist in the regular season, he played all four games in the MLS Cup playoff run, scoring the opening goal in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against Supporters’ Shield winners New England Revolution. In 2022, Rodríguez had a breakout year, helping the club claim the Campeones Cup and providing four assists in the MLS Cup Playoffs en route to back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals.
Rodríguez will join a Botafogo side that recently won the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores, crowning them as the top club team in South America.
Transaction: New York City FC today sells Midfielder Santiago Rodríguez to Brazilian side Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas.
