James Sands
NYC
Center Back
Center Midfielder
Ball-Playing Center Back
Jul 6, 2000 (26)
Right
6'1"
185 lb
Ranking
Grades
Key Grades
2026 Major League Soccer
Overall Grades by game
2026 Major League Soccer
Upcoming matches
News
Scores vs NER
Sands scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) in Sunday's 1-1 draw versus New England Revolution.
Analysis: Sands scored his first goal since returning to the club, providing the team's lone strike on Sunday. Since his loan from St. Pauli ended, he's started all six matches at center back, producing 31 clearances, 10 interceptions, and four blocks.
Returns from loan, signs extension
Sands has returned to New York City FC from his loan with FC St. Pauli and has signed a contract extension through the 2029/30 season, with an option for 2030/31, according to the club.
Analysis: Sands made 35 appearances across a season and a half with St. Pauli, including helping the club reach the DFB Pokal quarterfinals, and is fully fit and expected to start Wednesday's match against Columbus Crew. The Homegrown product has made 143 appearances for New York City since debuting in 2017, becoming the club's first Homegrown player to reach the Century Club and playing a key role in the 2021 MLS Cup winning campaign, and his return gives the midfield a proven and experienced presence as he steps right back into the lineup.
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