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New York Cosmos say Raul signing boosts club sales

The Cosmos' signing of Raul Gonzalez Blanco is already proving a successful and profitable operation for the New York based club without the ex-Madrid player having played a single game for the stateside team, according to AS.

The club's operating officer told Radio ADN in Costa Rica that the reaction from the public has surpassed their initial plans for the forthcoming 2015 season.

"Our supporters are very excited about the signing of Raul. We've had a surge of interest in season ticket sales and replica shirts are selling well too. Raul's arrival is a major talking point as was the club bringing in Pele and Beckenbauer," added Stover.

Raul's signing with the club was made official on Oct. 30th, but negotiations had been ongoing for approximately 12 months. Despite the complexity of the operation, Cosmos and especially coach, Gio Savarse, were capable of transmitting to the Spanish player the history of the club and their interest in accommodating his needs.

"Our initial contact with him was via Gio, who called him after a Marcos Senna tribute game between Cosmos and Villarreal [November 2013] when Raul was still playing with Al Sadd," added Stover.

Raul's arrival at Cosmos helps boost the profile of football in the city which now has three major clubs, New York Red Bulls and New York City FC, David Villa's new team.

"It's excellent for the city as it generates debate amongst the fans on which team to support. It reinvigorates the sport when there is competition and debate present. It's a great time for football in New York," said Stover.

At present Cosmos don't plan on playing in the Major League Soccer. They plan to persist playing in the NASL (North American Soccer League).

"We're happy in this category and see it as a great opportunity. The MLS is unique and somewhat closed."

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