MLS SuperDraft Pick Joey Zalinsky Signs With St. Louis CITY SC

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Post on Feb 23, 2025

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Local St. Louisan Zalinsky Signs with CITY SC After MLS SuperDraft

ST. LOUIS, MO – St. Louis CITY SC announced today the signing of midfielder Joey Zalinsky, a local product selected by the club in the second round (44th overall) of the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the club confirmed it's a multi-year contract. Zalinsky, a graduate of St. Louis University High School, becomes the latest addition to a young and ambitious CITY SC squad aiming for a strong playoff push in their inaugural season.

Zalinsky's journey to CITY SC is a testament to his dedication and talent honed within the St. Louis soccer community. He spent four years playing collegiate soccer at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), showcasing his versatility and tenacious style of play. While at UMBC, he consistently featured in the starting lineup, making significant contributions to the team’s overall performance. Precise statistics on goals and assists weren't readily available from official UMBC sources but accounts from college sports websites and UMBC game reports suggest a steady increase in his on-field impact throughout his tenure. Beyond statistics, coaches consistently praised his work rate, defensive contributions, and ability to link up play in midfield.

The signing of Zalinsky is particularly significant for CITY SC, not only for his potential on the field but also because he represents the club's commitment to developing local talent. He's a recognizable name within the St. Louis soccer scene, which strengthens the connection between the team and its passionate fanbase. CITY SC's sporting director, Lutz Pfannenstiel, stated in the official press release that Zalinsky possesses "the grit and determination that perfectly embodies the spirit of St. Louis," emphasizing the player's strong work ethic and local ties as key factors in his selection and subsequent signing.

While Zalinsky’s immediate impact on the first team remains to be seen, his addition provides valuable depth to the midfield. Head coach Bradley Carnell has a reputation for developing young players, and Zalinsky's potential to flourish under his guidance is undeniable. The club's commitment to building a strong academy system further suggests a long-term plan that could see Zalinsky become a key component of CITY SC’s future success. The exact details of his role within the team's immediate plans were not explicitly stated, but the club confirmed he will participate in pre-season training and will be competing for a spot in the starting XI.

The signing of Zalinsky follows a series of other strategic acquisitions by CITY SC as they seek to establish themselves as a competitive force in MLS. The club's ambitious recruitment strategy, combining experienced veterans with promising young talent like Zalinsky, showcases a clear vision for sustained success. The upcoming season will be a crucial test for the expansion team, and Zalinsky's contribution will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The next few months of pre-season training will reveal the extent to which he can adapt to the professional level and fight for a regular spot in the squad. The club's upcoming friendly matches provide opportunities for Zalinsky to demonstrate his skills and to earn the trust and confidence of the coaching staff.

This signing underscores CITY SC’s commitment to both local talent and building a competitive team for the long term. With Zalinsky's addition to the roster, the club is taking a significant step toward solidifying its identity and building a legacy within the St. Louis soccer community.