NYCFC Putting Trust in Their Youth

Sixteen-year-old Drew Baiera has become NYCFC's 12th homegrown signing in the club's history. Drew has signed a contract through 2027, with an option for 2028.

July 11, 2023

NYCFC Putting Trust in Their Youth

Sixteen-year-old Drew Baiera has become NYCFC's 12th homegrown signing in the club's history. Drew has signed a contract through 2027, with an option for 2028. The young defender has been with the club since U12 and has quickly ascended through the ranks, regularly training with NYCFC II. He made his professional debut against New England Revolution II.

New York City FC has now signed three players born in 2007: Christian McFarlane, Jonathan Shore, and Drew Baiera.

Being able to produce three players from the same Academy class is certainly an impressive milestone for our Academy staff. This feat continues to solidify NYCFC as one of the best Academies for the development of players and a pathway to the First Team.

Sporting Director of NYCFC, David Lee


Six homegrown players have made their debut with the First Team, starting in 143 matches out of a total of 209 appearances, while also providing seven assists.

El Salvador Prepare for U-15 Concacaf Championship

El Salvador has called in seven MLS academy players into their camp in preparation for the U-15 Concacaf Championship next month:

  • Jarell Bonilla (Orlando City SC)

  • Adonay Reyes (NYCFC)

  • Adonis Campos (NYCFC)

  • Matthew Benavides (NYCFC)

  • Alekzander Gómez (LAFC)

  • Justin Olmos (LAFC)

  • Ezequiel Bautista (FC Cincinnati)

El Salvador will participate in League A which includes 16 teams (14 highest ranked and two guest nations): Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, and United States