NYCFC news roundup: The latest on Justin Haak, the Leagues Cup, and more

As the year gets closer to the end, New York City FC has been somewhat quiet compared to other teams regarding offseason moves. They have made their roster decisions, which is required, but have not made any trades or signings, either incoming or outgoing. At least the team has a new sporting director, Todd Dunivant, but he does not start until January.

Nevertheless, there have been announcements and news releases, like the information about the U.S. Open Cup, in which NYCFC will participate. And, there are some things that can be covered from the past week. So, check out the latest NYCFC news roundup.

NYCFC might lose out on Justin Haak

It has been stressed that one of the club's top priorities should be re-signing Justin Haak. The player is a free agent and became a hot commodity thanks to his 2025 season. Multiple teams are trying to sign him in MLS and Europe. Clearly, that means that the price for his services has gone up. Still, NYCFC should do everything to bring him back.

Unfortunately, that might not happen. According to Joe Pantorno of AMNY, contract talks "have broken down, and it is unlikely that he will return to his long-time club". The Bronx side is "is undervaluing Haak" even though the team knows he will demand a higher salary, and rightfully so.

This implies that NYCFC is not willing to go as high as other teams, which is a little shocking. The defense was stronger with the partnership of Haak and Thiago Martins, so why would the club let one of their own go, especially for free? It would make sense that they would try to do everything, even overpay if needed, to ensure the Homegrown player returns. Just think, if he continues to improve, then the Pigeons could get a pretty penny for his transfer in a year or two.

The fact that NYCFC is willing to let him go elsewhere is a little frightening. Understandably, this is a business, but letting a player that was developed by the Boys in Blue walk away is not a good look.

An Etihad Park food update

Last week, NYCFC announced that Legends Global will be the Official Food and Beverage Operating Partner of Etihad Park. Per the team, "Legends Global will assist in bringing the Club’s culinary vision to life at Etihad Park managing concessions, premium suites and clubs, and catering." The idea is that fans will come to the stadium and get a taste of the local food.

Etihad Park will have local restaurants featured throughout the stadium, especially in the Five Boroughs Food Hall. This will be a space for local vendors and smaller restaurants.

The announcement highlights the commitment to the community. Fans might end up seeing their favorite local restaurant in the stadium. And ideally, there will be a spot to get New York Pizza, and not some chain that is not real pizza.

NYCFC will be in the Leagues Cup

It was already known based on where NYCFC finished the regular season, but it was confirmed that the Pigeons will be in the 2026 Leagues Cup. Like last year, the top sides in Major League Soccer will play against teams in Liga MX during Phase One of the tournament. Plus, the format will be the same as 2025, where everyone plays three games in the first stage, but only the top four MLS and Liga MX teams move on and play in the knockout stage.

Thankfully, the leagues were smart in scheduling the tournament. The Leagues Cup will occur after the World Cup, and will take place from August 4 through September 6.

It will be difficult, like last year, but hopefully, NYCFC will have a better chance of making the quarterfinals and winning more than one match.