Could Julián Fernández be the next star in the Big Apple?

Julián Fernández was brought in by New York City FC during the summer for offensive help following a poor showing in the attack during the 2023 season. He signed a five-year deal with the Pigeons and is expected to be the next new star in the Bronx.

Despite not immediately getting playing time, the Argentine proved he has potential. Therefore, he will be a rising star heading into the 2024 season. 

Fernández was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on January 30, 2004. He joined Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield at a young age, where he grew up to become a professional. Vélez Sarsfield is a sports organization located in Liniers, a barrio of Buenos Aires. Not only is it a club for soccer, but it also hosts various sports, including basketball. The Argentine worked his way to the top of the organization, and by the age of 18, he was playing professional soccer in Argentina. 

Fernández can become a star for NYCFC

During his first season playing for Vélez in the Primera División, Fernández recorded 40 overall appearances, scoring four goals in all competitions. It was not until his second season in 2023 that NYCFC noticed the young player after scoring three goals in 21 appearances. The winger had been on their radar since the start of the season, and the move became official in August after scouts were impressed by his skills.   

Though not a “Taty Castellanos” Fernández does have a good goal-scoring ability that is expected to be a solid pairing alongside Mounsef Bakrar. In nine regular season matches played with NYCFC, he had recorded two starts, scoring two goals on 15 shots (six on target) with a 77.4 percent passing rate. His two goals occurred in games against Toronto FC and Chicago Fire FC.

Meanwhile, he scored the game-winner against Inter Miami CF during a friendly match in November. The forward possibly played his best match with the Bronx side.

As long as Fernández continues to improve his skills and has a solid preseason, the forward could see regular time in the Starting XI in 2024 for Nick Cushing’s side. He will also enter his first full season in the MLS with a lot at stake for him to climb up the depth chart for New York City FC.