Alonso Martínez's ACL tear confirmation means that NYCFC needs a striker

During the last international break, New York City FC had some players who were with their national teams. The break took place during the MLS Cup Playoffs, so the hope was that the Pigeons would not be influenced in any negative way. But, as everyone knows, the Boys in Blue received the worst news that one could receive: Alonso Martínez hurt his knee while playing for Costa Rica.

Reports initially stated that the striker tore his ACL. However, NYCFC did not confirm that right away. Instead, the club revealed that he suffered a knee injury. At least, that was the case until Thursday. The team announced that Martínez underwent surgery for a ruptured ACL. This confirms that the injury is a full tear of his ACL, for a ruptured ACL requires a full tear or break of the ligament.

NYCFC did not release a timetable for his return, but fans should expect him to return no earlier than the summer, and possibly not until the fall or even 2027. Therefore, it is vital that they bring in a new striker.

NYCFC needs a striker

Now, there might be the idea to start someone already on the team. Nicolás Fernández Mercau might be considered due to his versatility and talent. He has started at center-forward a few times throughout his career. But his strength lies in the wings and attacking midfield. There is also Seymour Reid, who is a natural striker. However, the young player probably needs more experience before he can become a more consistent contributor.

So, with the departure of Mounsef Bakrar over the summer, NYCFC currently does not have a natural striker who can start games. Again, since Martínez could take a year to recover, the team must sign a striker who can consistently score goals.

Waiting could seriously hurt the Pigeons' progress under Pascal Jansen over the last year. Fans have seen what the team has gone through when they do not have a consistent striker. Plus, when Héber was injured in 2020, it took Valentín Castellanos time to adjust and become a fantastic center-forward for NYCFC. The Boys in Blue cannot afford to wait, though, for someone to change their position. More importantly, everyone has seen that sometimes playing somewhere different does not always mean success will occur. Talles Magno is a great example.

Hence, the club must find somebody, even if it is for a one-year deal or loan, to take over the striker position. It would not hurt for Martínez to have more competition, either, for when he returns. They cannot just sign someone with potential. They need someone who is already established.

NYCFC could look within Major League Soccer, and possibly aim for a trade if needed. They could also look around the world for someone who could make a difference and leave where they are in January. Nevertheless, the Queens team must act quickly, for the 2026 season will be here before one knows it.