Anton Tinnerholm says he will always look back on his time at New York City with immense pride and fondness.
The Defender’s five-year career with the Boys in Blue has come to an end, with the 31-year-old opting to return home to embark on a new chapter with his family.
Having clocked 131 appearances in Bronx Blue, scoring nine goals, and crafting 22 assists since arriving in December 2017, he has played an integral role in our journey and is highly regarded as both a player and person.
Though Tinnerholm admits he leaves the Club with a heavy heart, he says he will treasure the memories, having experienced so many unforgettable moments on and off the pitch.
“These five years have been amazing,” he reflected, “but now is the time to let go and try something else.
“I’ve been growing as a person, exploring a new culture, a new country, a new city and there have been so many moments to look back on. It’s been an amazing experience.
“I remember I’d told everyone in the press: ‘I came here to write history’ and we brought the MLS Cup. That was amazing, even if I was injured at the time. It’s cool to win a big title in another country.
“When we came here, me and my wife, we were only two, and now with two kids, we leave as four.
“It’s been a great five years but I think that especially during COVID, it was tough for me and my family – I didn’t see a lot of my family for two years.
“I think we all come to a point where you need something new, a new adventure and I’m feeling this. I reached a point now that with having two kids, I want to get closer to the rest of the family back home.”
Dedicated, passionate, and personable, Tinnerholm became a fan favorite, sharing countless special moments with the City supporters through the years.
Though injury sadly ruled him out of our 2021 MLS Cup triumph, the attack-minded Defender played a pivotal part in our journey to achieving our first star.
Highlighting that maiden trophy success as his on-field highlight, he also took time to thank the Club and fans for their unwavering support and kindness.
“That’s something that will stick in my memory,” he added. “All of the games when they have been there, having our back – especially the MLS Cup Final, when it was 3,000 New Yorkers in Portland, and we could celebrate with them at the party after the game.
“It’s hard to describe in words but I really appreciate everything they’ve done for me and my family. They’ve been supporting along the way from day one.
“They’ve been having our backs in tough moments, in good moments, and especially what I think about a lot is: when I got injured, they really had my back. They were sending me a lot of stuff back home, telling me: ‘Speedy recovery’ and that they are thinking about me.
“It really meant a lot for me to see they didn’t forget me, just because I’m injured. That’s something I will remember forever.”
Thank you, Anton.
