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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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Talles Magno, new signing for New York City FC
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – JANUARY 31: Talles Magno (R) of Vasco da Gama fights for the ball with Daniel of Bahia during the match between Vasco da Gama and Bahia as part of the Brasileirao Series A at Sao Januario Stadium on January 31, 2021 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Bruna Prado/Getty Images) /

1. Signing Talles Magno can be risky, but worth everything

There is nothing New York City FC fans wanted more than a marquee signing, especially a young player.  Finally, after waiting for so long, wishes came true when the Pigeons announced the signing of their new Young Designated Player: Talles Magno.

The young Brazilian is a player full of potential, and recently was connected to European sides before facing injury.  This included Liverpool FC, who were rumored to be interested last summer.  This allowed NYCFC to make the move, give the player a chance to return to his previous form, and continue to grow before he makes the inevitable jump across the Atlantic.  Depending on how well Magno does, the Pigeons might only have him for a year or two before teams in leagues like La Liga and the Premier League come calling with offers one cannot refuse.

Moreover, the club recognizes this is a step in Magno’s development journey, and they hope they can help him become a top-level player.  Per MLSSoccer.com, Deila said the following about Magno:

"“He’s a very talented boy.  We have really good scouts who know what they’re doing… He has the potential to play in the big leagues for big teams and already at the age of 18 he’ll be an important player for us. That says something about his talent.”"

Another versatile player, the normally left winger can play on the right and up center.  At just 18, he has 61 senior team appearances since 2019, and scored five goals with Club de Regatas Vasco da Gama.  He is a quick and direct type of player, so that should facilitate NYCFC with not only getting the ball into the box, but increasing chances on goal as well.  Plus, fans were able to see a glimpse of what Magno can bring in the game against Los Angeles FC.  He was one of the four substitutions who ended up being a difference maker, and led the team to a win.  He showed his ability to pressure and ability to create chances.

Of course, Magno will probably take some time to truly adjust to his new club before fans see what he is all about.  Furthermore, he is still recovering from his knee injury that kept him out for a long period in 2020, and plagued him earlier this year.  His form dipped significantly from before the injury, as would be expected.

Truthfully, Magno, with all of the talent and potential, is a risk NYCFC is taking on.  Although, he is a worthy risk, for the Pigeons could turn him into a hot commodity where everyone wants him.  The Bronx side will also allow for growing pains in case it takes time for him to regain his form and perform at a higher level.  Then again, based on the brief stint against LAFC, Magno might be closer to100% than expected, and his time in MLS should aid in his development.  Hopefully, he turns into a star player.

There was a lot of criticism toward the New York City FC front office before the season began.  But with a signing like Magno, and then the possibility of bringing in another Designated Player this summer, demonstrates the club knows exactly what they are doing.  The answer?  Make big time moves for now, and the future.

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