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09th Nov 2015

Patrick Vieira lands his first senior managerial job

Tom Victor

Patrick Vieira has taken his first step into management after being appointed as head coach of New York City FC.

The former Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder replaces Jason Kreis, who was let go after struggling in his first season with the MLS newcomers.

Despite a number of star signings including David Villa, Frank Lampard and Andrea Pirlo, NYCFC missed out on the end-of-season playoffs by some distance.

“This established football set up, together with a passionate and loyal fan base, located in a special city which I know well, makes for an unparalleled opportunity that I am delighted to seize with both hands.  I cannot wait to get started,” Vieira said in a statement.

Fabio Capello and Carles Puyol had been linked with coaching roles at the club, but Vieira has been selected to take the reins after a successful spell coaching sister club Manchester City’s reserve and youth teams.

The appointment will surely spark rumours that the Frenchman is being groomed for an eventual run at City’s top job, though this may be more of a long-term ambition.

He will work under another former City midfielder and NYCFC Director of Football Claudio Reyna.