New York, N.Y., – Today, New York City Football Club (NYCFC) announced that it has acquired Midfielder Richard Ledezma on an intraleague loan from Real Salt Lake through the end of the 2023 season.
Real Salt Lake will receive $50,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) in 2023 and a second-round MLS SuperDraft pick in 2024. Real Salt Lake will receive an additional $50,000 in 2024 GAM if certain performance-based incentives are met. There is no option to buy at the end of the loan.
The American Midfielder joins from Dutch side PSV Eindhoven after starting his career in the Real Salt Lake Academy. Ledezma made 23 appearances, scoring one goal and providing one assist for the Rood-witten across all competitions, including the Europa League.
Sporting Director David Lee said: “We are delighted to have acquired Richy on a loan deal through the end of the season. Richy is an extremely talented player with excellent technical qualities which suit our methodology, and will play an important role across several positions in our midfield. Richy has also gained experience playing in Europe during the past years and will be an important addition to our group.
“We will play in a number of competitions throughout the season, so building a strong squad is an important part of our strategy and Richy adds quality and depth to our roster.”
Ledezma joined PSV Academy in 2019 and featured in 47 matches for PSV U21 scoring and assisting seven times across all campaigns. Ledezma made his professional debut for USL side Real Monarchs in 2018 and has featured for the U.S. Men’s National Team in 2020, in addition to making appearances for the U.S. U23 and U20 teams.
Midfielder Richard Ledezma said: “I am really excited to be joining New York City Football Club. It’s a Club that has had success the past couple of seasons and have developed many great players. I look forward to working hard every day to continue my development and reach the level I know I am capable of.
“I will use the experience I have gained overseas to help this Club compete for every trophy available. I look forward to meeting my teammates and the coaching staff and can’t wait to play in front of the New York faithful and give them a reason to cheer this season.”
Transaction: New York City Football Club acquires Midfielder Richard Ledezma on an intraleague loan from Real Salt Lake through the end of the 2023 season.
Name: Richard ‘Richy’ Ledezma
Position: Midfield
Date of Birth: September 6, 2000
Height: 5’8”
Weight: 155lb
Birthplace: Phoenix, Arizona
