As per NYCFC statement: Manchester City website suggested that Lampard deal was a loan, which is an error Lampard accepted a short-term contract with City as a free agent until Dec 31 and this deal was extended to end of season There was a 'verbal commitment' from Lampard to join NYCFC from Jan 1, 2015. That was delayed until end of season Lampard is free to sign deal with NYCFC as of 1 July, 2015 It's like a slap in the face of Chelsea supporters and Mourinho by agreeing to join a title rival...initially, I thought moving to City was part of the new york contract but based on what I've read, there was no new york contract, it was a verbal commitment