New York City FC on Tuesday announced Efraín Juárez has joined the club as part of Ronny Deila’s coaching staff.
A former Mexican international, Juárez played for Deila at Norwegian club Vålerenga in 2019 and with the Vancouver Whitecaps in 2018, making 16 appearances for the MLS side. During his 11-year professional career, Juárez also played for Celtic FC and Real Zaragoza in Europe, as well as stints in his native Mexico at UNAM, Club América, and CF Monterrey.
“The opportunity to be reunited with Ronny was an easy decision for me and I am very excited to join NYCFC," Juarez said in a statement. "I am so grateful to everyone here, especially to Ronny and David Lee. I can’t think of a better club to be at as I begin this new chapter of my professional career."
Born in Mexico City, the 32-year-old former midfielder and defender spent time in the youth academy at UNAM and the famed La Masia academy at FC Barcelona. Juárez made his debut for the Mexican national team in 2009, eventually making 39 appearances including at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
“I’m really happy to welcome Efraín into our staff and it’s great to be reunited after working with him in Norway," Deila said in a statement. "He knows what it takes to be a professional player at the highest level, and he will bring great experience and energy as he works closely with our players to help them develop every day."
