New York City FC’s rising star, Julian Fernandez, has stirred up some attention with a surprising confession—his ultimate football dream is to play for Liverpool, not Manchester City, despite being part of the City Football Group (CFG) umbrella.
The 20-year-old winger, who joined NYCFC in the summer of 2023, made the revelation during a university event, where he boldly stated, “Playing in Europe, especially for Liverpool, is my dream.” This comment is bound to raise some eyebrows within CFG, the global football powerhouse that owns both NYCFC and Manchester City, as well as a network of 13 other clubs including Girona, Melbourne City, and Mumbai City FC.
CFG, led by the Abu Dhabi United Group, has been known to funnel top talents within its system toward the Etihad Stadium, hoping to bolster Manchester City’s squad with emerging stars from across the globe. Past examples include the transfer of Yangel Herrera to Girona and Yan Couto’s loan to the same Spanish team. But Fernandez seems to have his heart set elsewhere, pointing toward the Etihad’s fierce rival—Liverpool.
Fernandez, originally from Buenos Aires, began his professional journey at Velez Sarsfield in Argentina before making the move to the U.S. In his short time at NYCFC, he’s already made an impact with 33 appearances, including 29 in Major League Soccer, scoring four goals and providing three assists. His talent hasn’t gone unnoticed on the international stage either, as he’s earned six caps for Argentina’s U-20 squad, featuring in the 2022 South American Youth Football Championship.
Upon joining New York City, Fernandez spoke with enthusiasm about his new opportunity, saying, “It’s one of the biggest clubs in Major League Soccer and a very important step in my career. I will continue to work hard every day to improve and help the team.”
NYCFC sporting director David Lee praised the youngster’s potential when he joined the club, describing him as “a dynamic attacking player with high potential.” Lee added, “He is an attack-minded winger who can also play centrally and has an excellent left foot, is quick, skilful, and good in one-on-one situations. His acquisition will bring more depth and competition to our roster.”
Though CFG may have had other plans for Fernandez, his heart appears to be set on a move to Anfield, not the Etihad. Whether Manchester City will attempt to shift his allegiances in the future remains to be seen, but for now, Fernandez has made it clear where his dream lies—under the famous lights of Liverpool.
In the broader picture, Manchester City are laser-focused on reclaiming their European crown, with Pep Guardiola and his squad determined to once again dominate on the continent. City, who have won the last four Premier League titles, are gunning for European glory as they prepare to face Inter Milan, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain in the revamped tournament featuring 36 teams in one massive group stage.
