Football Season Guide

New York City FC had a poor campaign last time around compared to the high standards they have set in recent seasons, finishing outside the top three for the first time since their inaugural season and were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs. New York will be heading into the new season without two of their regular players in Alexander Ring and Ronald Matarrita, with both the players moving on in trades within the MLS. Despite the departures New York retain one of the strongest starting lineups in the league but depth remains a major issue both up front and in the defense. Maxi Moralez and James Sands both missed portions of the campaign last season with injuries and should they suffer a similar fate this time around, coach Ronny Deila will struggle to bring in quality replacements, with the attack facing a similar situation especially up front. New York continue to be linked with players but are yet to bring in any established names though they have bolstered their options at left back by bringing in Chris Gloster and Malte Amundsen. Alfredo Morales has also been signed from Fortuna Dusseldorf and is expected to replace Ring in the midfield. There are still some holes in the roster that have to be plugged if New York are to reclaim their glory days but in the present state, they face a tough fight even to make it to the playoffs this season.