Matt Miazga, left, has signed a four and a half year contract with Chelsea. ©Twitter / @ChelseaFC
Matt Miazga, left, has signed a four and a half year contract with Chelsea. ©Twitter / @ChelseaFC

Football

Chelsea complete move for New York Red Bulls defender on four and a half year contract

Chelsea made their second signing in 24 hours when defender Matt Miazga joined from MLS club New York Red Bulls on Saturday.

Reuters

January 30, 2016

Chelsea made their second signing in 24 hours when defender Matt Miazga joined from MLS club New York Red Bulls on Saturday.

The Premier League club, who took Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato on loan from Sao Paulo-based Corinthians on Friday, said Miazga had signed a four-and-a-half year contract.

New Jersey born Miazga, 20, was a product of the Red Bulls academy, making his debut for the club when he was 18.

“I am very happy to sign for Chelsea, a world-famous club with a reputation for major success,” he told Chelsea’s website.

“I am still at the beginning of my career but I believe this is the place to develop and learn from some of the best players in the world.”

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Miazga plays in central defence and was an integral part of a Red Bulls back four with the best regular-season record in North America in 2015.

He earned his first full international cap when he came on as a substitute in a World Cup qualifier against St. Vincent and the Grenadines in November.

“It’s a bittersweet day for the New York Red Bulls,” the club’s Sporting Director Ali Curtis said.

“We are very happy for Matt to get the opportunity but it is tough to see him leave after coming through our academy to the first team — there is a different feel when one of your home-grown players leaves.

“We tried everything we could to keep Matt but we understand and respect his desire to play in Europe.”

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Analysis

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Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction

Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.

Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.

Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.

Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.

Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.

What are the guidelines?

Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.

Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.

Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.

Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.

Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.

Source: American Paediatric Association