New York City FC announced today the signing of Argentine defender Diego Martinez.

The left back joins on a free transfer from storied Argentinian club, River Plate.

“I am very excited to join New York City FC and am grateful for the opportunity the Club has given me,” said Martinez. "I have played in Argentina for my whole career and I know that now is the right time for a new experience as I continue to progress as a player and a person,” said Martinez. “I’m looking forward to playing for a big club with big players. The team has already become very important within the sporting fabric of New York, so I am excited to get to work and meet my new teammates.”

Martinez, 24, developed at River Plate, making his professional first team debut in 2012 and appearing in 13 matches for the first team over the course of the next year.

New York City FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna praises Martinez's defending skills.

“Diego has a good level of experience having played with the first team at River Plate. He’s a quick strong defender that can attack as well as defend. He is a leader at his position and we look forward to the expertise he will bring to the squad.”

In 2013 he made 18 appearances on loan with Sarmiento (Junin) and 20 appearances on loan for Patronato de Parana in 2014.

Head Coach Patrick Vieira is happy to add another good player to the Club.

“I’m really pleased to add another strong and talented player to our group. We are adding an energetic and hardworking player that will only continue to work to improve alongside the rest of our team,” said Vieira. “I’m hoping Diego will be able to join the team during the first part of our pre-season training camp. Pre-season is an important moment for new signings to integrate into the squad and get to know their teammates better.”