NYCFC news roundup: Preseason fun, James Sands' Bundesliga start, and more

New York City FC is in California for their preseason and the players are preparing for the first preseason games. They are acclimating to their new head coach, Pascal Jansen, and are getting to know a few of the new teammates. Ideally, by the time the Major League Soccer regular season begins, questions that plague the team will be answered.

In the meantime, there are some things to cover, including some of the fun the Pigeons are having. Check out the latest NYCFC news roundup.

NYCFC news roundup: Some preseason fun and more

Matt Freese did not play for the USMNT on Saturday

This is not necessarily a news story, but in case one did not catch the USMNT game on Saturday, Matt Freese did not play for the national team. The NYCFC goalkeeper was on the bench while Patrick Schulte of the Columbus Crew was between the sticks. The US won 3-1 against Venezuela.

Freese will have another chance on Wednesday to make his debut for the national team.

NYCFC is having preseason fun

Based on photos posted by NYCFC's social media accounts, it appears the team is having fun during the preseason. Or, perhaps the team's photography and social media teams are having a little fun with the content they are putting out.

From making fun of the fans back in New York with the expected snow, to putting out everyone's favorite ice bath pictures and video, the content has been spectacular this year.

There has also been some soccer tennis mixed in, which is always a fun thing to watch. It is fitting since the Australian Open is going on at this time.

Overall, the team looks to be happy and enjoying themselves. Hopefully, the positive vibes will continue throughout the preseason and as NYCFC begins playing games.

James Sands made his first start for FC St. Pauli

NYCFC midfielder, James Sands, who is on loan with FC St. Pauli, has already made a few appearances with the Bundesliga side. On Saturday, he made his first start with the team, playing about 71 minutes. St. Pauli won 2-0 against 1. FC Heidenheim 1846, securing a vital three points.

Sands did a decent job, earning a 7.1 rating on FOTMOB. Although, that was the lowest on his team. Still, he had a 79% passing accuracy, created one chance for his team, and had five recoveries. He struggled a little with his duels too. The NYCFC fan favorite did not play his best, but it was a decent job for his first Bundesliga start.