The New York Cosmos announced today the return of defender Ayoze. As per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Ayoze brings great quality to the team,” said Cosmos Head Coach and Sporting Director Giovanni Savarese. “He is very talented with a lot of experience. He is part of the core of our defense and I’m happy to have him back with us this season,” he added. 

Ayoze, 31, was the fourth player to be signed in 2013 for the team’s reboot season. The left back joined the iconic U.S. club from La Liga side, Sporting Gijón. 

A native of the Canary Islands, Ayoze featured in the 2016 North American Soccer League’s Best XI having made 30 appearances (29 starts) with a passing accuracy of 80 percent. 

“I am happy to rejoin the Cosmos, my intention was always to be here this year so I am happy that the team survived. I’ve had many discussions with Gio and feel confident that the club will continue in the right direction,” commented Ayoze.