NYCFC news roundup: Thiago Martins and Keaton Parks might leave and more

The 2026 season is almost over. New York City FC has one more game left before the rough campaign can officially be left in the rearview mirror. It has been a disappointing year, especially because the team had a talented roster that underperformed. Points were dropped too often, goals were sometimes hard to come by, and there were times that the players could not maintain a lead.

That is why it is somewhat good that the final game will be on Decision Day. Now, the focus can turn to 2027. However, before then, there is some news to cover.

Let's take a look at the next NYCFC news roundup.

Some NYCFC players might not be here in 2027

After the CF Montréal draw last weekend that eliminated NYCFC from postseason contention, two players revealed that they might not be here next year. Captain Thiago Martins was honest with the media and expressed that he does not know whether he will be here after his contract expires. He mentioned there were contract talks, so it does not look like he is fully gone. However, after an up-and-down season, which really can describe his tenure with the team, it would not be shocking if that is the case.

Keaton Parks also spoke to the media, and he revealed that he will likely be elsewhere next year. He also said that, as of now, he has played at home in the Big Apple for the final time. If that is true, then that is hard to hear. The midfielder has been loyal ever since he originally came here on a loan deal. Sadly, injuries have plagued his time over the last few years, but when he is on the pitch, he is one of the team's best players.

It would be sad to see both players leave, but also understandable. NYCFC might want to change up the backline after this season, and Parks' injuries mean that he is not reliable. Sometimes, no matter how great someone is on and off the pitch, reliability is an important factor. The club needs someone of his level or better who is not constantly injured.

Alexander Ring is retiring

Former NYCFC player Alexander Ring has announced that he will retire at the end of the season. The midfielder last played for the Boys in Blue in 2020 before he was traded to Austin FC. Then, he returned to Finland to play for his old club, Helsingin Jalkapalloklubi, in 2025, and will finish his career there when the Veikkausliiga's 2026 campaign ends this month.

It is sad that Ring never returned to NYCFC, but fans will always remember the former captain's time with the club. His passion for the Boys in Blue was always on display. He gave his all during his time in the Bronx. Fans will remember what he was like on social media, especially around the Hudson River Derby. In the end, his departure was the right move, but that does not mean it did not hurt.

Hopefully, Ring will look back on his time in the Bronx in a positive way, and who knows? Maybe he will come back and visit NYCFC when Etihad Park opens.

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