If he really wanted City, why didn't he just sign with them in the first place? That way he wouldn't have obligation to NYCFC when the new season starts. How many years he sign with NYCFC? 4? It will be a travesty if he serves 0 of those at the club. For now there's nothing going on, and pre-season ain't nothing. It's better for NYCFC that Lampard is at City. So that when the season starts Lampard will go to the club in the best shape.