NYCFC news roundup: The international break and more

New York City FC has not had the best return to Major League Soccer after their decent run in the Leagues Cup. Their game against Chicago Fire FC ended in a draw and then they lost 4-2 against the Columbus Crew. It might be good they are currently in the middle of the international break. Perhaps this time is being utilized properly to fix the team's recent problems.

The next game is not until September 14 but the Pigeons have been busy on and off the pitch. Here is the latest NYCFC news roundup that includes the international break and more.

NYCFC news roundup: National teams, NYCFC II, and more

Players on international duty

NYCFC is fortunate to have six players called up to their national teams, both the youth and the main ones. Mitja Ilenič was called up to the U-21 Slovenia team, Christian McFarlane is with the U-18 English team, Jovan Mijatović is representing Serbia's U-21s, Alonso Martínez is finally back with Costa Rica, and Tomás Romero is with El Salvador. In addition, Máximo Carrizo is with the U.S. Under-17 Men's Youth National Team.

Martínez has already made the start with Costa Rica against Guadeloupe. The U21- players Ilenič got the start for Slovenia's U-21 Euro qualifying match against France and Mijatović started for Serbia against Ukraine.

Former NYCFC player Valentín Castellanos finally was called up to play for Argentina and made his debut as a substitute against Chile. This has been a dream for him, so everyone at NYCFC was extremely happy to see this.

NYCFC II played their first match at Icahn Stadium

NYCFC II finally played at Icahn Stadium for the first time in a match against Atlanta United 2. They ended regulation 2-2 and Atlanta won 4-2 via a penalty kick shootout.

This was important since this was part of NYCFC's investment into the city, for they invested in the Randall's Island stadium. By playing the first game there, the MLS Next Pro side is expanding their reach in the city.

Pass It NYCFC

The Pigeons have recently started the Pass It NYCFC Challenge. Per the club, it is to "celebrate" the "new stadium". The goal is to "break the Guinness World Records title for Most Passes of a Soccer Ball in an Online Video Chain". Fans can either record their own video and post it or they can attend one of the specific events or games where they can participate there.

This is a cool event that NYCFC is doing. Hopefully, they will break the record.