Maximo Carrizo has become the youngest professional player in Major League Soccer history after he signed a deal with New York City FC on the day of his 14th birthday.

Born in 2008, the midfielder joined New York City's academy system in 2018 aged just 10 after making a name for himself at his local side, FC Westchester. Carrizo was then invited to take part in NYCFC’s first-team pre-season in 2022.

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The Manhattan native of Argentinian heritage proved his empire state of mind by impressing NYCFC enough to land himself a historic homegrown contract and become the youngest pro baller in the club's history and the tenth homegrown signing since their academy was formed in 2015.

The previous record for youngest player in MLS history was broken earlier this year by Axel Kei (14 years, 15 days) who signed for Real Salt Lake, with Freddy Adu having famously held the previous record before that when he signed a pro contract with D.C. United in 2004 at 14 years and 168 days old.

“It’s an honour for me and my family to make MLS history by becoming the league’s youngest player to sign a first-team contract," Carrizo told the club's official website.

"This is an incredible club with amazing people. I’d like to thank everyone at NYCFC for believing in me and helping me take the next step in my career. I know I’m young and I have a lot to improve, but I am ready for the challenge and will work hard every day to show everyone what I am capable of."

The 14-year-old added: “I already feel part of this club and I really believe that NYCFC is the perfect place for me to continue my development and grow on-and-off the pitch.

"It’s inspiring to see how NYCFC produces talent and how homegrown players get the opportunity to play in the first team. I know this will take some time, but I am willing to be patient and learn from the amazing group of players and coaches that we have at this club.”