The NYCFC preseason has officially begun, and it is a beautiful thing

There is no question that there is some sadness entering the preseason for New York City FC. Two starters injured themselves at the end of 2025, leaving questions about whether they will be available at any point in the 2026 season. Alonso Martínez tore his ACL, and Andrés Perea suffered a lower leg injury. Then, Justin Haak left the club as a free agent.

At the same time, there is so much to look forward to. Pascal Jansen, as of today, still has the majority of his 2025 side, which means there should not be too many adjustments leading up to the first game. In addition, there are some younger players who will hopefully have their best year yet, like Jonathan Shore and Julián Fernández. Also, the Pigeons had a solid finish to the end of the last campaign, making the Eastern Conference Finals in the MLS Cup Playoffs.

NYCFC is back for the preseason

Of course, fans should be excited that the preseason has officially begun. Over the weekend, NYCFC players made their way to the Etihad City Football Academy in Orangeburg. There, they went through medical and fitness tests. Players and the coaching staff were reunited after a decent offseason of over a month.

NYCFC posted multiple photos and videos all over social media. It looked like everyone who is a part of the team was there this weekend, including Martínez and Perea. The one player who was notably missing because he is not signed to the club was Maxi Moralez. The Argentine has not made a decision about his future. There is a chance he has, and perhaps he was there this weekend, and the Pigeons kept any video or photos of him off of social media.

Meanwhile, there was one surprise appearance after his loan deal expired. Talles Magno returned to NYCFC, and like always, he was full of smiles. The picture of him hugging Jansen was not expected, and truthfully, the club could have kept him off their posts if he is looking for a permanent move elsewhere.

Instead, Magno was featured, and it is easy to wonder whether the Brazilian will be given a chance to remake the squad during the preseason. Of course, it is possible he will still seek a move elsewhere, but as many players do, he will continue to work with the Bronx side and keep up his fitness.

It is a beautiful thing to see the NYCFC players back for the preseason. This means that fans can celebrate, for the team will be back in action sooner, rather than later.