Talles Magno out of NYCFC? youngster's future under threat with little playing time

Talles Magno's future at New York City FC is more uncertain than ever. The Brazilian winger, one of the most expensive signings in the club's history with a fee of around US$8 million, has played just six minutes in the MLS this season. First, an injury sidelined him, and now he finds himself on the bench as an unused substitute. This naturally raises questions about his future at the club, especially with the transfer window open in Europe and Brazil.

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David Lee, NYCFC's sporting director, admitted that there have been no official offers for Magno yet. "We haven't had any offers for him right now," Lee told GiveMeSport. "If that changes, we'll consider it and see if it makes sense for us and Talles. There's no guarantee that will happen." It's a curious scenario for a player who, despite his youth and potential, seems to be out of the coach's immediate plans.

Magno himself, when asked if he would still be at NYCFC at the end of the summer window, replied cryptically: "I don't think so". This only increases speculation that a departure is imminent, but the big question is: where will he go?

Brazilian clubs Vasco da Gama, Atlético-MG and Bahia have all been linked with the player. It's worth remembering that Bahia is owned by City Football Group, the same group that controls NYCFC, which could facilitate an internal transfer. However, Talles Magno seems to be eyeing opportunities in Europe. Last season, Bologna had a loan offer rejected by NYCFC, who would only accept a permanent move that met his value.

The interest from Brazilian clubs is understandable. Talles Magno is young, talented and still has a lot to offer. A return to Brazil could mean more playing time and the chance to stand out again in familiar surroundings. However, the typical rhythm of the European market suggests that an offer could come later in the window, when clubs are desperate for last-minute reinforcements.

It's a delicate situation. Magno wants to play more and is frustrated by the lack of opportunities at NYCFC. Lee recognizes this: "We know he'd like to play more than he has." For the club, keeping a talent like Magno on the bench makes neither financial nor sporting sense. If he's not in the plans, leaving seems to be the natural course of action.

NYCFC's next match could be crucial in determining Magno's fate. If he returns to the bench, the pressure for a transfer will increase. And with the transfer window still open for a few weeks, anything can happen.

If NYCFC receive an offer that meets their expectations, Talles Magno will probably pack his bags. And the fans, who have already seen the young Brazilian's talent in action, especially in 2022, where his performance was nothing short of applaudable, with 11 goals and seven assists. It was a year of glory, crowned with the Major League Soccer (MLS) title. Now, out of Nick Cushing's plans, which leave him in limbo, the fans will have to say goodbye prematurely to a player who promised much but delivered little. For Talles Magno, a move could be the restart he needs to get his career back on track and show the world his true potential.

The outcome of this soap opera will only be known in the coming weeks, but one thing is certain: Talles Magno is on the radar of many clubs and his departure from NYCFC is a real possibility. Whether he returns to Brazil or moves to Europe, he is looking for a new opportunity to shine.