NYCFC news roundup: Matt Freese, a Town Hall, and the U.S. Open Cup

2023 is almost over, but the New York City FC news continues. Here is the latest news roundup for the Bronx team.

The NYCFC news roundup: Matt Freese, a Town Hall, and more

In case you missed it... Matt Freese is staying

In case you missed it, NYCFC signed Matt Freese to a contract extension. He will stay with Pigeons until at least 2026. It is expected he will be named the starting keeper in 2024.

Freese has had a long journey to get where he is today. He and his family moved around a lot when he was little. It took time for him to become a goalkeeper. Then, it took some time for him to become a starter after starting his professional career in 2019. However, he continued to put in the work and never gave up. He finally earned the starting role and has not looked back.

NYCFC had a Town Hall meeting

A few weeks ago, NYCFC had a Town Hall with City Members. Nick Cushing and Brad Sims spoke to the supporters while former announcer Joe Tolleson moderated the event. New York City Councilman Francisco Moya was also there.

This allowed fans to speak with the head coach and CEO. After a terrible season, this was a good move by the club.

Only a few snippets of the town hall were released on NYCFC's social media. In the short video, Cushing stressed how he wants to play possession-based, attractive football. In addition, he wants to build a winning team.

The MLS Next Pro team will play in the U.S. Open Cup

Shockwaves ran through the Major League Soccer fanbase when it was announced the MLS Next Pro teams will play in the U.S. Open Cup. For the Pigeons, that means NYCFC II will participate in the oldest soccer tournament in the United States. First teams like NYCFC will not compete.

The news was not what fans wanted to hear. Many were angry and upset. Understandably, the move was made to reduce the number of games. Some teams played around 50 fixtures in 2023. But rather than expand rosters and make changes, Don Garber and MLS decided the first teams will not play in the competition.

There are not many good memories for NYCFC with the U.S. Open Cup. Many years saw the Pigeons eliminated after their first game. Yet, that does not mean nobody cares about the tournament. There is something about playing in the Cup that is magical.

There are questions about whether MLS is going in the right direction. The U.S. Open Cup decision is the wrong road to go down. New York City FC and the other first teams should play in the tournament.