NYCFC sends MLS-leading three players to 2022 All-Star Game

Castellanos and Callens have been two key players for the reigning MLS Cup champions.
Castellanos and Callens have been two key players for the reigning MLS Cup champions. | Ira L. Black - Corbis/GettyImages

New York City FC's 2022 season has gotten off to a great start after winning the MLS Cup in 2021, earning points in 15 of its 19 matches. The club plays great as a unit, but that doesn't stop the players, media and coaches from recognizing the individual talent on its roster.

On July 12, forward Valentín "Taty" Castellanos, defender Alexander Callens and goalkeeper Sean Johnson were named to the 2022 MLS All-Star Game. NYCFC's three players are the joint-most by a single club, with only Los Angeles FC also sending three players.

Castellanos, fresh off winning the MLS Golden Boot in 2021, has picked up right where he left off. The Argentinean forward has scored an MLS leading 12 goals while also picking up an assist in just 15 games. His 0.82 goals per 90 minutes ranks second in the entire league.

The 23-year-old consistently finds the net for NYC, and has cemented himself as one of, if not, the best forwards in the MLS. The nomination is the first in his MLS career.

Callens has been amazing for NYC through the 2022 season. The Peruvian center back is one of the league leaders in interceptions (43) and clearances (65). Despite being a defender, the 30-year-old has scored three goals for the club in 18 matches. Despite being a consistent player for NYCFC for a few years, the All-Star appearance will be the first for Callens in his sixth year in New York.

Johnson has been one of the best keepers in the MLS. He has an MLS leading nine clean sheets under his belt, and has the T-12th best save percentage (69.1%). For reference, Johnson had nine clean sheets in 29 matches in 2021. The American keeper consistently makes clutch save after clutch save for the club, and the All-Star nomination is much deserved. The election is the first of his career for the 33-year-old keeper in his 13th year in the MLS.

With how 2022 has started for the club, NYCFC could easily be in the mix for another MLS Cup win. Castellanos and Johnson are close to one-upping their amazing seasons in 2021, and Callens is playing great. Only time will tell how the season will finish for NYC, but all things are looking great for the club.