James Sands’ loan spell with Scottish Premiership club Rangers came to an end on Wednesday with the American midfielder heading back to parent club New York City FC.
Sands has rejoined NYCFC for the continuation of the 2023 MLS campaign, both clubs announced. The first-ever NYCFC homegrown signing also agreed to a new MLS contract, which will run through the 2027 season.
“I would like to thank James for his time at Rangers,” Rangers manager Michael Beale said. “He was a well-liked player in our squad and I enjoyed working with him on a daily basis. I believe he will go on to have an excellent career.”
Sands arrived in Glasgow during the 2021-22 campaign and proceeded to total one goal in 41 appearances across all competitions for Rangers. The 22-year-old helped Rangers win the 2022 Scottish Cup, as well as reach the 2021 UEFA Europa League Final and take part in the 2022-23 UEFA Champions League group stage.
Sands made his NYCFC debut in 2017 and logged 76 appearances across all competitions for the Eastern Conference club prior to his loan move abroad. Sands helped guide NYCFC to its first trophy in 2021 while also earning NYCFC Young Player of the Year honors.
“I am excited to return to New York,” Sands said. “As someone who grew up in New York and played for local youth teams and the NYCFC academy, it was and continues to be a great honor to represent this Club. NYCFC has had a tremendous impact on my development, the Club’s support of my initial step in Europe and continued understanding of my career goals has been very important to me.
“I would like to thank Rangers for the fantastic opportunity to play with a top-notch European team,” he added. “Reaching the Europa League final, playing in the Champions League, and winning the Scottish Cup are just a few of the many positive memories that I will take away with me. The level of support from the Rangers’ fans is second to none.”
NYCFC opened its 2023 league schedule last Saturday with a 2-0 road loss to Nashville SC.