Shortly before their season-opening 2-2 draw to Inter Miami on Saturday night, NYCFC announced that star midfielder Santiago Rodriguez was transferred to Brazilian side Botafogo in a deal with a reported fee of around $17 million. This move sees Rodriguez join the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, with Botafogo clinching the last November.
“Santi has established himself as one of the best attacking midfielders in MLS,” NYCFC sporting director David Lee said in a press release. “His development across the last four years with the club and his recent performances resulted in interest from teams around the world.”
After missing most of City’s preseason, including the Coachella Valley Invitational, the 25-year-old’s time in Major League Soccer was numbered.
Rodriguez’s journey with NYCFC began in the summer of 2021 when he joined the club on loan from the Uruguayan team Montevideo City Torque. During his first spell with the club, Rodriguez made himself comfortable, netting four goals in his 21 appearances for the men in blue.
After his first successful loan spell, Rodriguez then signed with City permanently in March 2023, inking a four-year contract as one of the team’s three Designated Players.
In the 2024 season, Rodriguez exploded offensively, racking up a combined 22 goals and assists in 40 matches for the team. His performances last season earned him several Etihad Player of the Month awards. One of his best months was in August, when the attacker scored in three straight games.
“We’re incredibly proud of the impact that Santi had throughout his time here. From joining us on loan in 2021 to becoming our No. 10 and Designated Player, Santi has played a pivotal role in our success, helping us lift both the MLS Cup and Campeones Cup,” Lee continued on. “Joining The Century Club and becoming a key figure in our team speaks to his quality and consistency.”
With Rodriguez’s departure, NYCFC has freed up a Designated Player spot. Though the club’s winter transfer activity has been slight, an open DP spot gives Sporting Director David Lee the chance to add a marquee star player in the summer.
With Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne’s set to expire this summer, a move for the Belgian midfielder would be a dream choice for City Football Group.
Rodriguez’s move also reflects a growing trend of MLS players moving to Brazil. In recent years, several players have made the switch to Brazilian clubs, including Orlando City’s Facundo Torres, LAFC’s Cristian Olivera, and the Houston Dynamo’s Sebastian Ferreira.
“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,” Rodriguez said. “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.”
Botafogo currently sits in eighth in the league standings, with just two wins in their last five matches.
