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New York City FC sold midfielder Santiago Rodriguez to Brazilian side Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas.

NYCFC said Saturday that it received the second-highest transfer fee in club history but didn’t disclose an amount. New York also will retain a sell-on percentage if Rodriguez is sold in the future.

Rodriguez, 25, had been with New York since the summer of 2021, first on loan from a club in Uruguay and then as a designated player. He made 144 appearances with NYCFC, scored 34 goals and added 28 assists across all competitions.

He was part of the team that won the MLS Cup in 2021.

He leaves New York ranked second in assists, fourth in goals and sixth in total appearances for the club.

“Santi has established himself as one of the best attacking midfielders in MLS. His development across the last four years with the club and his recent performances resulted in interest from teams around the world,” New York sporting director David Lee said.

“We have a proud track record of supporting our players’ journeys to help them maximize their career ambitions. While we will miss Santi’s infectious personality in the locker room and his impact on the field, we wanted to support Santi’s wishes while also making sure the club received appropriate compensation for a player of his caliber.”

In the 2024 season, Rodriguez scored 16 goals and added 10 assists in 40 appearances.

His new team recently won the Conmebol Copa Libertadores, making it the top club team in South America.

–Field Level Media