NYCFC news roundup: A preseason friendly, Nicolás Acevedo, and more

The preseason for New York City FC is in full swing. Therefore, there is a lot of news to cover. Here is the latest NYCFC news roundup.

The NYCFC news roundup: a friendly loss, Nicolás Acevedo, and more

NYCFC played the first preseason friendly

On Wednesday, NYCFC played their first preseason friendly. The Pigeons suffered a 1-0 defeat by Barcelona S.C. after 90 minutes of play. Notably, fans had to look at Barcelona's X account to get the score via social media. The Bronx team did post a match recap in which they argued they were the better side during the first half.

It was the second half where the Bronx team fell short. They allowed the lone goal and struggled to get the ball into the back of the net. What else is new? In addition, the Starting XI was revealed, and it included some starters like Matt Freese and James Sands.

The next preseason friendly will take place on Saturday, January 27. NYCFC will play one of their rivals, the Philadelphia Union. This match will occur behind closed doors.

Gianni Lee was named the Art and Culture Consultant

NYCFC is known for partnering with local people and businesses. In 2024, they are partnering with Gianni Lee, a local artist who was named the Art and Culture Consultant for the club. He will use his talents to connect the diversity of the city to the team.

According to NYCFC.com, Lee's work this year will include the "art direction for New York City FC's 2024 kit launch event and this year's Community Cup jersey design. He will also lead the direction of merchandising design and visual identity for our City Celebration Series matches, which include Women's Empowerment, Black Excellence, Healthy Lives, Pride, Kids Night, and Noche Latina matches."

This is an impressive move by NYCFC. It highlights their continued commitment to the Big Apple in every way.

Nicolás Acevedo was sent out on loan again

On Friday, NYCFC announced they have sent Nicolás Acevedo back out on loan to Esporte Clube Bahia. After a mostly successful season, the midfielder suffered an ACL injury. It was unknown whether he would recover with the Pigeons or the Brazilian side, but now an answer has been given.

This time, the loan will last until the end of 2024, with an option to buy. The option to buy can only be enacted if specific performance-based goals are met. This must mean Bahia rates the player highly since he will be out for the majority of the upcoming season. They see Acevedo in their plans. The wording is intriguing, for he will miss so much time.

Nonetheless, it can still be inferred that New York City FC has seen the last of Acevedo in a sky blue jersey.