WASHINGTON - MLS team New York City FC announced on Wednesday that American midfielder Keaton Parks will be returning to Portuguese side Benfica in December after his impressive loan spell this season.

After a slow start to his season-long loan, Parks found his rhythm and earned a place in coach Dome Torrent's starting lineup. In total, Parks made 22 MLS appearances for New York and scored one goal.

The 22-year-old joined Benfica since 2017, but found it hard to have regular playing time.

Benfica now top the Portuguese soccer league standings.