The past two years have not been productive for the once highly touted French midfielder, Ben Arfa Hatem.

Can New York City FC offer him a lifeline?

According to a report from French paper L’Equipe, NYCFC have interest in the troubled footballer.

Ben Arfa’s contract was terminated by Nice of Ligue 1 after FIFA and the LFP (French Football League) prohibited him from playing in their competition. FIFA regulations state “players may be registered with a maximum of three clubs during one season. During this period, the player is only eligible to play official matches for two clubs.” Ben Arfa did not play for three senior club teams, but did feature for both the Newcastle and Hull City U-21 teams. The harsh decision follows an equally disappointing season with the Magpies that saw the French winger punished and outcast to Hull due to his uninspired performances.

The Tigers move did little to revitalize the 27-year-old.

Now without a club and contemplating retirement, NYCFC could provide fertile ground for Ben Arfa to resurrect his career. Once considered a potential phenom, the wayward winger’s career has taken a nosedive. A stint in the US would allow the Frenchman to regain his form and return to Europe to compete for a spot come the January window. It would also allow him a chance to join a side gearing up for a new season, not a European club that is halfway through their campaign where the pressures to perform would be immediate.

A natural right winger, Ben Arfa can slot at the attacking midfield slot — and the left wing. NYCFC are thin at the flanks, making Ben Arfa an enticing option, with a high ceiling.