The agent for Macoumba Kandji says that the New York Red Bulls forward’s strong play in last weekend’s Barclays New York Challenge has drawn interest from a European club.
Kandji’s agent, Richard Trafford, told MLSsoccer.com Tuesday that the 24 year-old striker is committed to his career in New York, but that his play alongside newly signed Designated Player Thierry Henry drew some surprising attention.
“It’s been a very frenetic few days. Mac did so well over the last week that it is natural he would attract globally,” Trafford said. “Thierry Henry’s arrival focused the world on New York, and Mac stepped up for his team.”
Kandji scored the opening goal of the Red Bulls’ 2-1 win over visiting Manchester City on Sunday at Red Bull Arena, and assisted on Dane Richards’ winning strike in the second half.
“Mac is a New York Red Bulls player, and is contracted to be so,” Trafford said. “He is very committed to the Red Bulls and I am sure they are to him. Any progression from here forwards would always be a Red Bulls and MLS matter.”
Because Kandji has not represented any national team, he would need to go through a review process from a panel to obtain a work visa if he were to play in England.
“We know it is very difficult, there have been precedents but every case is different. It’s a legal matter,” Trafford said. “I’m just focusing on the Houston game. That’s all that matters.”
The Red Bulls return to action on Saturday against the Houston Dynamo at Robertson Stadium in Houston.
Kristian Dyer is a reporter for MLSSoccer.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs. He can be reached for comment at KristianRDyer@yahoo.com and followed at twitter.com/kdyer1012
