Frank Lampard met up with Manchester City colleagues for the first time this morning after his loan switch to Eastlands was confirmed.
The 36-year-old midfielder will join City on a six-month loan deal taking him to the start of new club New York City’s MLS season.
City boss Manuel Pellegrini can draw from his wealth of experience and Lampard will look to maintain his fitness, as he embarks on his American adventure.
“Joining up with Manchester City is a fantastic opportunity for me to continue to play and train at the top level,” Lampard told the club website.
“It has been an amazing few days for me since the unveiling in Brooklyn and everyone connected with both clubs have been fantastic.
“I met Manuel and some of the players in New York and I’m looking forward to training and contributing.”
Lampard’s transfer is a landmark for Manchester City’s new relationship with their affiliated clubs, which includes not only New York, but A-League Melbourne City.
After capturing their second Premier League title last season, City will want an assault on all domestic and European fronts.
Lampard, having won virtually every trophy available during his 12-year spell at Chelsea, could prove valuable in early cup and European fixtures.
However, Pellegrini has stated that the emphasis is firmly on preparing Lampard for the United States.
“Frank is a world class midfielder,” said the Chilean.
“I’m really pleased that we’ll be able to have him for the first half of the season and prepare him for his new challenge.”
The England international will be available for selection for all City’s domestic and European fixtures and will wear the number 18 shirt.
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