REPORT: Alfredo Morales signing with New York City FC

Another American international is heading to Major League Soccer.

According to a report from Bild, Alfredo Morales is set to join New York City FC “in just a few days” for a “small fee.” Fortuna Düsseldorf revealed on the club’s official twitter account that there are “promising negotiations” and the 30-year-old midfielder “did not participate in team training.” His current contract expires at the end of this season.

After dealing with an early season ankle injury, Morales has made 17 total appearances for Düsseldorf. He previously played with Hertha BSC and FC Ingolstadt. Following relegation from the Bundesliga, the club is in sixth place in the second division and decidedly on the outside of the promotion picture.

The move to MLS is a smart decision for a player in his 30s looking for some measure of security. There will be fierce competition for playing time in the center of the midfield, with New York City FC featuring a mix of experienced veterans and young prospects on the depth chart. If he is able to establish himself as a starter and make an impact, perhaps his international career will have a revival.

Eligible to represent Germany and Peru, Morales earned 16 caps with the U.S. Men’s National team since making his debut in 2013. He was a member of the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup squad. His most recent appearance came in November of 2019, appearing against Canada and Cuba in the CONCACAF Nations League.

While Morales has not featured for the U.S. in more than a year, there’s always a possibility the veteran midfielder could play a role during World Cup qualifying. Experience can be asset during meaningful matches, particularly for a squad that is defined by its youth. “I like his range and the physicality he brings to the team,” said manager Gregg Berhalter in 2019, describing two qualities that would benefit the national team. The upcoming summer features two competitions, the Nations League and the Gold Cup, both presenting the opportunity for his return.

Is this a good move for Morales? Let us know in the comment section.