Whenever a new expansion club starts their new life in MLS, they want something to build on, an identity to act out of, a culture to be recognised by, an individual that can lead the way for the whole organisation to follow.
For Atlanta United, it was Tata Martino and a plethora of young south American talent. For Los Angeles FC, it was Bob Bradley, Carlos Vela and the celebrity presence of Will Ferrell. And for New York City FC, it was David Villa.
When the Manchester City expansion plan stretched to north America, they required a leading light, a shining star, a pillar of hope.