New York City FC: International recap for September 2022

New York City FC saw three players called up to represent their national teams during the September international window.  Alexander Callens was called up to represent Peru, Maxime Chanot got the call for Luxemburg, and Sean Johnson made his way to Europe to join the United States.

The overall results were mixed and not ideal.  Clearly, it was not perfect for the Pigeons on international duty.  Nevertheless, here is a quick look at all three players and their time with their national teams.

Alexander Callens

Alexander Callens has been in top form, so it was no surprise he was called up to Peru’s international fixtures.  Although, like the rest of his teammates, there were some growing pains, for Peru’s new head coach, Juan Reynoso is implementing his style of play. 

Hence, some of the pain was felt, and Peru fell in their first game, 1-0, to Mexico.  Callens started, played all 90 minutes, and had a decent performance.  Defensively, the first half had some errors by the South American side, but despite playing a better second half, the defense gave up a late goal, which of course was the deciding factor in the result.   

Surprisingly, Callens was on the bench and did not play against El Salvador, where Peru rebounded and won 4-1.  At the same time, it makes sense that the new coach is experimenting with the lineup. 

On a more positive note, that also means Callens gets a little extra rest before the final home game this Sunday for NYCFC.  Hopefully he will continue his top form to finish off the season, and into the Major League Soccer playoffs. 

Maxime Chanot

Maxime Chanot started both games for Luxembourg in the UEFA Nations League.  Unfortunately, he contributed to the 3-3 draw against Turkey in a negative way, for he caused an own goal in the first half.  This led to his substitution at halftime.

However, Chanot played the entire match against Lithuania.  He and the rest of the defense redeemed themselves, for Luxembourg got the clean sheet and 1-0 win.  As a result, they finished in second place in League C, Group 1, and will stay in League C when the Nations League begins again.   

Despite questions last year about Chanot’s international future, it seems the center-back will continue wearing his country’s colors for as long as he can.  Surely the coaching staff sees his value, and the 32 year old still plays at the level needed to start for Luxembourg.  It is likely he will still be called up when the 2023 fixtures roll around. 

Sean Johnson

Sean Johnson was one of the three goalkeepers called up to represent the United States.  He and the rest of the American contingent traveled to Germany to play against Japan, and then Spain to face Saudi Arabia. 

The captain was on the bench for both matches, and did not play in either of them.  The USMNT lost 2-0 against Japan, and then drew 0-0 in the fixture against Saudi Arabia.

Whether Johnson makes the World Cup squad is yet to be seen.  Still, his performances with New York City FC this past season might give him that edge to claim the third goalkeeper spot in Qatar.