Homegrown midfielder James Sands has returned to NYCFC after a year-and-a-half loan with German club St. Pauli, the team announced Thursday.
With it comes a contract extension to stay with New York, which will run through the 2029-30 season with an option for 2030-31.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome James back to New York City,” sporting director Todd Dunivant said. “James has been an important part of this Club’s history, has proven himself in this league, and now brings top European experience. As we continue to build our core roster, James will be a vital member of our group moving forward.”
Sands was the first homegrown product in franchise history to make 100 MLS appearances and was also named the club’s defensive MVP in 2024. The 25-year-0ld was on the cusp of the US national team before his loan to St. Pauli before he suffered a complex right ankle injury involving a fractured fibula and torn MCL after just seven matches.
What was initially supposed to be a six-month loan was extended through the end of the 2025-26 season. In total, he made 35 appearances across all competitions, recording a goal and an assist. He started all of St. Pauli’s matches during their run to the quarterfinals of the German Cup
“I’m really excited to be back with the Club,” Sands said. “New York City FC has been an important part of my career at every stage. Whether that was developing as a young player in the academy, becoming a Homegrown, establishing myself in the first team, and even giving me these opportunities to develop in Europe, New York City has been with me every step of the way. Now it’s my turn to give the best years of my career back to the Club. From day one, I’ve had a great connection with the fans, and I’m looking forward to keeping that going.”
For more on NYCFC and James Sands, visit AMNY.com
