5 reasons to be thankful for NYCFC in 2024

The loss to the New York Red Bulls in the MLS Cup Playoffs still stings for many New York City FC fans. The Boys in Blue had a chance to make it to the Eastern Conference Finals but blew it. The goal-scoring struggles that plagued them numerous times in the last couple of years resulted in the team's not-so-great ending to the season.

Plus, NYCFC and the supporters would have preferred to finish the regular season higher than sixth place. Yes, they made the playoffs after missing the postseason in 2023. However, that was not good enough.

Although, 2024 was still better than the previous season. Hence, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, which many are celebrating today, there is plenty to be thankful for. Here are five reasons to be thankful for NYCFC.

Reasons to be thankful for NYCFC in 2024

1. NYCFC continues to progress with the stadium, and so far, there have not been any delays. It is easy to be thankful that the Bronx side only has a few more seasons until they move into their future home, Etihad Park. The announcements and renderings add to the excitement.

2. One can assume that most fans are thankful that NYCFC is searching for a new head coach in 2025. Nick Cushing was officially sacked on Tuesday, putting an end to the roller coaster and ultimately disappointing run with the Pigeons. Calls for his firing have been occuring for over a year. It was somewhat shocking since many assumed he would remain as the head coach in 2025. However, NYCFC made the decision to part ways, making many supporters happy.

3. One player to be thankful for is Matt Freese. The goalkeeper was vital throughout the season and kept his team in games. Somehow, he was not nominated for the Goalkeeper of the Year. Nevertheless, he still had a fantastic year for the Boys in Blue.

4. Another player to be thankful for is Maxi Moralez. Nobody knew how he would play when he returned from his ACL injury. For the most part, the Argentine was his usual self and started many games. His impact in the midfield was noticeable, for when he was not on the pitch, he was missed. Meanwhile, the NYCFC player's future is up in the air, for the legend might retire or not re-sign with the team. It would be nice to have one more season with Moralez. If this is it, then at least fans saw him play one more campaign with the club.

5. NYCFC made the playoffs and that is something to be thankful for. The ending was not ideal, but at least the Pigeons were back in the playoffs after missing it in 2023. The improvement, although not good enough, is still something one can appreciate when looking back at the 2024 season.