The 36-year-old left Chelsea at the end of last season after 13 years and a club record 211 goals, winning three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, the Europa League and the Champions League.

New York City are owned by England’s Manchester City and Major League Baseball’s New York Yankees and will play at Yankee Stadium when the 2015 MLS season gets under way in February.

“The passion of the nation’s fans at the World Cup was second to none and I am looking forward to meeting New Yorkers and tapping into their love of the game.

“It is a privilege to be able to help make history here in New York City – I just can’t wait to get started and be part of it.”