As Major League Soccer resumes following the FIFA World Cup break, New York City FC enters the second half of the season with renewed optimism. Reinforcements have arrived, key players are nearing returns from injury, and Head Coach Pascal Jansen believes the club remains firmly committed to building a championship-caliber roster.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s matchup against the Columbus Crew, Jansen welcomed back midfielder James Sands following his loan spell in Germany while also expressing excitement over the addition of forward Bénie Traoré. Both players are expected to provide valuable versatility as NYCFC pushes toward the playoffs.
“Jimmy hasn’t disappointed me so far,” Jansen said of Sands. “He is that versatile player that we were looking for… very open to learn more and very engaged.”
Traoré, meanwhile, has already begun developing chemistry with the squad, particularly alongside Nicolás Fernández Mercau. Jansen described the early partnership as “fascinating to watch” and believes the new signing perfectly matches the attacking profile the club sought during the summer transfer window.
The club also received encouraging injury updates. Kevin O’Toole is expected to rejoin full training soon, while Keaton Parks is nearing a return after missing the U.S. Open Cup match against Columbus. However, several players remain sidelined, including Kai Trewin following foot surgery and Aidan O’Neill, who is expected to miss another four to six weeks after ankle surgery. Alonso Martínez continues progressing through rehabilitation from his ACL injury.
One storyline drawing significant attention remains goalkeeper Matt Freese, who returns after a difficult World Cup exit with the United States. Jansen made it clear the club fully supports its goalkeeper.
“We have his back 100 percent,” Jansen said. “These things happen. It’s part of the life of a football player.”
For Sands, returning home represents more than simply changing clubs. After spells with Rangers and FC St. Pauli, the New York native believes the timing was right to return to the club where he began his professional career.
“I wanted to be with a club I call home,” Sands said. “I wanted to be close to my family.” He added that NYCFC’s upcoming move into Etihad Park next season made the opportunity even more appealing, calling the next chapter of his career “only half finished.”
Looking ahead to Columbus, Sands expects another tactical battle against one of MLS’s strongest possession teams but believes NYCFC has every reason to expect a positive result despite the current injuries.
With fresh faces, returning veterans and a healthy locker room mentality, New York City FC begins the season’s final stretch believing its best soccer still lies ahead.
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