There is a simple answer for what NYCFC should do with James Sands | OneFootball

New York City FC has multiple players out on loan. One player who is away on loan is James Sands. He has been with FC St. Pauli since January 2025. Unfortunately, he suffered two different ankle injuries during both of his loans with the club. But when he played in one of his 35 appearances, he often started and played very well for the German side.

Sadly, St. Pauli ended the Bundesliga season in 18th place, meaning that they were relegated to the second tier of German football. And, the club revealed that Sands will leave after his loan deal expires. Hence, he will return to NYCFC. But what should the club do with their talented midfielder?

The answer is quite simple. While Sands had those unfortunate injuries, which were plainly bad luck, he still proved to the footballing world that he can play in a top division in Europe. As such, it is time for NYCFC to officially sell Sands and let him pave his own journey with a new club. Yes, he received the opportunity to do so while out on loan. However, loan deals are just that. He has done enough to stay overseas.

It is time for James Sands to fully move on from NYCFC

Of course, if Sands would prefer to build himself back up after missing some time and actually stay and play with NYCFC, then that is not the worst idea. It would be ideal for him to leave this summer. However, a departure in January would not be the end of the world.

What NYCFC should not do is another loan, even until the winter. It is time for the midfielder to fully take that step and 100% move on from NYCFC. The 25-year-old, almost 26-year-old, is not getting younger.

Also, his estimated market value on Transfermarkt currently sits at $5 million, which is the highest of his career. The Pigeons will probably get the most amount of money that they would have received over the last few years for Sands. Therefore, it makes sense when it comes to money for him to be sold now. In fact, that acts as a counterargument to his returning to build himself back up after his injury.

But where should the first-ever NYCFC homegrown go? As mentioned, he could easily move to a top league in Europe. Notably, he should not move to a top team, for he would likely not see the pitch too often. If Sands wants to shine, then he needs to go somewhere where he can clearly compete for a starting role.

Moreover, he and NYCFC should not just stick with the top leagues for where he can play. Most would say the top leagues are the Premier League in England, La Liga in Spain, Serie A in Italy, Ligue 1 in France, and, of course, the Bundesliga in Germany. But there are also some good teams in Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark, and the top divisions there are still considered some of the best.

When all is said and done, though, it might be beneficial for Sands to stay in Germany. He knows the league well and is familiar with the teams. The exact team he should play will depend on who wants him, the money clubs are willing to spend, and truly what is a good fit for the player.

So, the time is now, NYCFC. It is time to officially say goodbye and send Sands off into the world. There could always be a return down the road, for others have kept that option available. But for now, a move elsewhere will be the right move for everyone.