Football Season Guide

NYCFC made the playoffs in 9 of the last 10 years. They won the title as recently as 2021. Last season was solid too and saw them reach the Conference Final. Won 72% of their home games, had only 5 draws W17 L12 and this was enough for 5th place. At age 38 AM Moraez started every MLS game of 2025 and his passes were the main source of chances. His experience was vital in the playoffs too. NYCFC reached the Eastern Conference final after eliminating Charlotte 2-1 wins, both wins at home, then edging Supporters’ Shield winners Philly 1-0. The run stopped at the Conference Final where against the eventual MLS champs Inter Miami 1-5 defeat was suffered. By that stage Moraez was playing on fumes. Yet to be seen what the plan for 2026 will be regarding the AM position. Surely now 39 year young Moraez can’t be expected to start every game again. With hardly any transfer activity it seems solutions will be seek inside. The only new arrival Trewin is a defence-minded player. Alonso Martinez scored 17 goals last year so he remains the big hope in attack. Have good core of players in defence and midfield. The 2nd year manager Jansen is expected to continue with his favourite 4-2-3-1 shape. CB Gustavo and AM Mercau arrived late in 2026 but both played very well in the playoffs. They are seen as important figures going forward. Mercau may easily grab the AM spot from Moraez, leaving the veteran to cause havoc with his passes mainly late in games.