Pascal Jansen again proves why he is magnificent for NYCFC with transparency

After a full year in charge of New York City FC, it is easy to declare that Pascal Jansen has improved the team. Many fans appreciate his tactical choices and decision-making moves during matches. In addition, after leading the Pigeons to a fifth-place finish in the Eastern Conference and subsequently leading them to the Eastern Conference Finals, one can say that the head coach had a great 2025.

While NYCFC has yet to play a game in 2026, Jansen is arguably already off to a great start. Another aspect that makes the head coach great is that he is transparent. In his most recent press conference, he reminded everyone that he is honest with his comments. Ultimately, he continues to be a breath of fresh air.

Jansen did not hide anything in his press conference and provided some illuminating comments about the NYCFC roster.

Pascal Jansen is transparent about NYCFC

Similar to Todd Dunivant, the head coach opened up about the importance of finding a replacement for the injured Alonso Martínez. He said that it is the club's wish to "find somebody with the perfect profile" to join the team. It is difficult to ascertain whether he was talking about a talent like the Costa Rican or whether it was about finding a number nine. He did add how he expressed the need for a striker, and the search process is "looking good".

This was expressed by Skyscraper Blues once Martínez's ACL tear was confirmed. The need for a replacement, even a temporary one, is vital if NYCFC wants to compete in 2026. Seymour Reid is too inexperienced, and other players should not be played out of their positions. It is good to see that Jansen recognizes this and is not saying a company line like the team will see whether they can sign someone, but they have Reid.

Jansen also mentioned Talles Magno and how he is doing in the preseason. The winger, who was a nice surprise addition to the preseason roster, is doing well, according to the head coach, and he pretty much alluded that the Brazilian is trying out to make the team.

Additionally, Jansen spoke about the backline. He admitted that, after Mitja Ilenič's departure, there is a player who will be competing with Tayvon Gray for the right-back spot. As of now, NYCFC is not signing anyone new. Rather, Drew Baiera is getting the chance to compete with the established starter.

This is a good sign, since this highlights that Jansen is continuing to give the younger players a shot. There is the argument that the Bronx side's depth was sometimes lackluster and that the club should bring in more established players or veterans. However, the head coach is known for developing younger players, and this was seen in 2025. Perhaps this season will see players like Baiera take the leap, and certain outside signings will not be needed.

More notably, Jansen still thinks it is important to bring in talented players, and he admitted that he requested someone similar to Justin Haak to sign. The midfielder/defender left the club in the offseason, and with Raul Gustavo able to slot in next to Thiago Martins, this was an interesting thing for Jansen to mention. He was also truthful, stating that "all spots are filled" when it comes to that part of the roster. It is easy to argue against that, for NYCFC could use another center-back.

As a whole, Jansen has been pleased with NYCFC in the preseason so far. He has been satisfied with the training sessions, but recognizes that without results on the pitch, it is not the full story. But he believes the players are "heading in the right direction to be successful and stay competitive again this season.”

It is nice that the head coach is honest. Again, he could say general lines like many coaches and say how the team is looking for players, and not go into specifics. But he let fans know what is going on with the team, and what types of players NYCFC is seeking. Transparency goes a long way, and it is much appreciated that Jansen is truthful.