NYCFC news roundup: Nicolás Acevedo and some preseason games

  • Here is the next NYCFC news roundup
Nicolás Acevedo, formerly of NYCFC
Nicolás Acevedo, formerly of NYCFC | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

New York City FC is in the middle of building for their 2025 season and has had a busy December. The Pigeons have seen departures and there have been some rumors regarding possible incoming players. Although, nothing is substantial at this time. In addition, the team can look forward to the schedule release and MLS SuperDraft later this week.

In the meantime, there are some things to discuss. Here is the next NYCFC news roundup that includes a former beloved player.

NYCFC news roundup: Another player move and the preseason

Nicolás Acevedo officially leaves NYCFC

When Nicolás Acevedo first left on loan before the 2023 season, NYCFC fans were shocked by the decision. The midfielder improved significantly in the 2022 season and was a part of the MLS Cup run in 2021. He played in multiple positions due to his versatility and was a valuable member of the squad.

Some thought the move was made for personal reasons. At the same time, Acevedo went to Esporte Clube Bahia, a fellow City Football Group club. In other words, this could have been urged by CFG, for they have been trying to improve the Brazilian club.

Regardless, it was thought NYCFC saw the last of the midfielder, and that was a correct assumption. On Monday, the club announced that Acevedo made a permanent move to Bahia for an undisclosed fee. The Pigeons will earn a percentage of any transfer fee if the Uruguayan is sold down the road.

Why did NYCFC wait until now to sell him? They renewed his loan for another year last season, but would it have made sense to sell him then? Surely, there was an understanding he would remain in Brazil.

However, one possible answer is his ACL injury that forced him to miss most of the 2024 season. Perhaps Bahia refused to sign Acevedo with the injury but knew they wanted to keep him. Still, since both teams are CFG clubs, they could have created a deal that would have worked. Nonetheless, the transfer is a good one for Acevedo. May he have continued success in Brazil.

NYCFC and the 2025 CVI

On Tuesday, NYCFC announced a good portion of their preseason schedule. The Bronx side will participate in the 2025 Coachella Valley Invitational and play four matches. They will face Sporting Kansas City, San Diego FC, St. Louis City SC, and Minnesota United FC from February 5-15.

Fans will be able to attend these games and can also catch NWSL matches as well. This is the first year the NWSL will participate in the CVI, but notably, Gotham FC is not one of the teams. These fixtures will take place after Major League Soccer friendlies.

It is good that NYCFC is participating in the CVI again. This allows the team to stay in one place for some time and utilize top facilities for their preseason training.