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New York City FC: Top 3 moves for the 2021 season

By Caitlyn Chale

May 22, 2021; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; New York City FC defender Gudmundur Thorarinsson (20) before the game against the Columbus Crew at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
May 22, 2021; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; New York City FC defender Gudmundur Thorarinsson (20) before the game against the Columbus Crew at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /
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Valentín Castellanos of New York City FC
May 29, 2021; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York City FC forward Valentin Castellanos (11) kicks the ball during the first half against Los Angeles FC at Banc of California Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

2. The five year contract extension for Valentín Castellanos

For months, rumors swirled about Valentín Castellanos possibly leaving New York City FC for Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras.  Based on reports out of Brazil, it seemed the Argentine was ready and willing to make the move, and the Pigeons were halting the move until they could find a replacement.  The transfer saga is best summarized here, and it truly seemed Castellanos’ days in New York were numbering down.

Yet, the Bronx side was able to convince him to stay, and in the end he signed a five year contract extension.  After a strong showing at the end of the 2020 season, and the fact he still has the potential to make the jump to Europe, are big enough reasons to why he deserved the extension.  Even more so, when Castellanos does make the jump to another club, which is bound to eventually happen, the next offer that comes around will have to be considerably more than what Palmeiras offered.

Also, despite being goalless in the last three games, he still has four goals from the first four matches.  He has been a reliable threat, and leads the teams with 30 shots and 12 on target.  He has two assists as well, and is not afraid to get back and try to retrieve the ball from the opposition.

With all that being said, Castellanos is not guaranteed to be the starting striker once Héber returns from injury.  On the other hand, his performances on the pitch are proving him to be a worthwhile starter.  And remember, he can play on the wings as well, and Deila can formulate a starting lineup with both players.  Obviously, the five year extension shows the club is invested in the 22 year old, and sees him as a crucial member of the squad.

Sure, the club might have made that offer to ensure they had a striker on the roster, and maybe they told Castellanos they would work with him after to get him to his preferred destination.  However, that is a little far-fetched, and New York City FC is clearly committed to him and his development.  The extension was definitely necessary, but also well deserved.

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