New York City FC has announced that it has signed defender Ronald Matarrita to a contract extension using Targeted Allocation Money.
The Costa Rican international will return to the Major League Soccer club for a third season.
“I am very happy to re-sign with New York City, it’s the team that has given me the strength to raise my level as a football player and as a professional,” Matarrita said. “I am very happy with the decision I have taken.”
According to the Major League Soccer Players Union, Matarrita earned a base salary of $175,000 and a guaranteed compensation of $200,000. It was not immediately know how much of a raise he received from the club for 2018 or for how long his contract was extended.
“To represent NYCFC is a commitment, I believe it’s an honor to wear this jersey,” Matarrita said. “I am doing my best to represent it the best way possible. I always try to give 100 percent on and off the pitch and believe that in my time with the club I have been able to accomplish that.
“Now, I want to do the best job possible with New York City, the club that has given me everything. Also, to be called up to the national team for the World Cup and have an excellent tournament for my country.”
The 23-year-old Matarrita endured an injury-marred 2017 season after suffering a metatarsal fracture midway through last season. He played in 14 games and contributed two assists.
“I am really delighted that Matarrita has signed his new contract with us,” head coach Patrick Vieira said. “He’s still really young and he still has some parts of his game that he needs to work on to improve to get even better but I’m glad that he will have the chance to do that with us here in New York.
“It was a really tough season for him because of the injuries that he had but what I like about him is his work ethic and his determination to come back even stronger. What is good in our football club is that we will have two really good left backs.
“This competition for places in every position is really important and that’s why I’m so happy that Ronald has signed this new contract.”
