NEW YORK – New York City FC has officially signed midfielder Aiden O’Neill from Belgian top-flight side Standard Liège, inking a deal through the 2028 MLS season. The 26-year-old Australian international will join NYCFC pending receipt of his P-1 Visa, having completed the transfer prior to the close of the MLS Primary Transfer Window on April 23.
O’Neill arrives with a strong résumé that includes serving as captain of Standard Liège, where he logged 54 appearances, contributing two goals and one assist. Prior to his move to Belgium, O’Neill starred with Melbourne City FC, a fellow City Football Group (CFG) club, racking up four goals and six assists in 63 matches, while helping guide the team to two A-League titles.
“Aiden is a smart, powerful, and tireless midfielder,” said Sporting Director David Lee. “His time as captain in Europe and experience within City Football Group make him a natural fit for our culture and style. We’re confident he’ll bring leadership, versatility, and energy as we build around Pascal’s vision for the club.”
O’Neill returns to CFG after starting his professional career in England with Burnley FC, where he featured in Premier League and FA Cup matches. He also spent time in EFL League One with Oldham Athletic and Fleetwood Town, before returning to Australia and playing for Brisbane Roar and Central Coast Mariners. Across five clubs in the A-League Men, O’Neill made 88 appearances, contributing both goals and assists as a key midfield presence.
“It’s a dream to join NYCFC and rejoin the City Football Group family,” said O’Neill. “I’ve heard amazing things about the club and the fans, and I’m ready to give everything I have for the crest. I pride myself on being a hard-working, box-to-box player, and I’m excited to help this team compete for trophies in one of the world’s greatest cities.”
PLAYER PROFILE
- Name: Aiden O’Neill
- Position: Midfielder
- Date of Birth: July 4, 1998 (Age 26)
- Height: 5’9″
- Weight: 172 lbs
- Nationality: Australian
- Hometown: Brisbane, Australia
TRANSACTION: New York City FC signs midfielder Aiden O’Neill from Standard Liège through the 2028 MLS season.
