A look at the NYCFC 2025 preseason roster

On Wednesday, New York City FC announced their 2025 preseason roster as they head to California. The team was still traveling to Santa Barbara despite the fires in Los Angeles. They are not near the wildfires, but the fire threat in Southern California remains.

Who is on the NYCFC preseason roster?

Alas, NYCFC has most of their first-team players on the roster, with a few exceptions. The Pigeons admitted that Christian McFarlane is not with the team since the front office is working on a possible transfer. Such a move was expected, and McFarlane should be on his way to Manchester City FC. In addition, Jovan Mijatović is still in Serbia as rumors of a possible loan swirl. Interestingly, it was said the forward is still there due to a "training stint," and no other details were released.

Meanwhile, Matt Freese will not be with NYCFC to start, for the goalkeeper is with the USMNT for their January camp. He will join the squad after the camp is completed.

In addition to the rostered players, there are some players training with the Pigeons who are not with the first team or associated with the club. In the preseason, three of the MLS SuperDraft selections are with NYCFC: Max Murray, Collin McCamy, and Nicholas Cavallo. It makes one wonder whether the club already made a decision on the other two selections, Arnau Farnos and AJ Smith, and decided they will not sign them.

Then, three players from NYCFC II and the academy are on the preseason roster: Peter Molinari, Seymour Reid, and Anthony Suarez. Molinari is the lone player from the MLS Next Pro side. There is also one trialist this season: Mac Learned.

Moreover, all of the new players, including the recent goalkeeper addition, Greg Ranjitsingh, are available for the preseason. The first part of the preseason actually gives Pascal Jansen a good chunk of time to look at those battling for the backup role since Freese will be with the USMNT. While the starting keeper should be back with the squad by the time the team plays the first match on January 24, the time spent in training should give the head coach an idea.

Of course, more players can join NYCFC during the preseason. Other signings are expected, especially as others leave the team. As mentioned, the team is working on a transfer for McFarlane, so they will need another left-back who can compete with Kevin O'Toole. Fans should expect the roster to change as the preseason progresses.