New York City FC 2015 Season Review

In 2015, New York City FC embarked on their first official season in Major League Soccer. A lot of people had high hopes for NYCFC going into this season. Unfortunately, this season was more disappointing than anything.

After the acquisitions of David Villa, Andrea Pirlo, and Frank Lampard, it seemed New York City FC was an unstoppable force in the league. This was not the case in 2015.

New York City FC finished tied for eight place in the Eastern Conference. They had a record of 10-17-7 and totaled 49 goals. On the bright side, Villa had 18 of them. Villa recorded a tremendous first season in MLS. He made 30 appearances and had 8 assists. Without him, NYCFC would not have faired as well.

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The New York defense allowed 58 goals which was a league most. This was due to the lack of experience on the back line especially after the injuries of George John, Chris Wingert, and Josh Williams. Even though NYCFC gave up a lot of goals, Josh Saunders was terrific in net.

Strengths of NYCFC

Villa, Villa, Villa

The former Spanish international had a great first campaign in Major League Soccer. He had more than a third of the teams total goals (18). Villa proved that he was the playmaker the club needed. The only thing the organization has to do is bring in players who can play around Villa, Lampard, and Pirlo.

May 30, 2015; New York, NY, USA; New York City FC defender Shay Facey (24) helps teammate New York City FC defender Jeb Brovsky (5) during second half against the Houston Dynamo at Yankee Stadium. the game ended in a 1-1 tie. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

Promising Youth

This season was not the season the organization believed they would have especially with the acquisitions of the European superstars. Along the way, they found some promising young players. Patrick Mullins and Angelino stand out the most.

Mullins appeared in 24 games and had six goals. Angelino was a constant starter at left back and proved that he belonged with the team. Look for these two to make an impact in 2016.

Weaknesses in the City

Relying on the Superstars

This season was very similar to the season the Red Bulls had when Henry and Marquez arrived in New York. Many people relied on Henry/Marquez to bring home an MLS Cup. What people did not understand that it takes more than one person to make a team.

The NYCFC organization needs to fill the spots around the superstars with quality players, if they can do that they will be in playoffs.

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Walkers on the Backline

In 2015, they had many veteran players on their back line and to be honest not ver good ones. Josh Williams and Jeb Brovsky are too old. There spots should be filled with promising young players who can learn from players like Chris Wingert.

Final Thoughts

This season was not the dream campaign many fans predicted, but there is a lot of promise. If the organization fills the spots around the European superstars, look for NYCFC to be in the MLS playoffs next season.

2015 Grade: C-

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