New York City FC is entering the final stretch of preseason with one final friendly as the club prepares for its season opener against the LA Galaxy on Sunday, February 22. After their match against San Jose, the focus will shift fully toward competitive play.
Head coach Pascal Jansen emphasized that the final preseason match will serve as a last evaluation point, particularly for players still integrating into the squad. Defender Kai Trewin, who logged 30 minutes against Sporting Kansas City, is expected to start in order to build chemistry alongside different combinations on the pitch. With roster changes over the offseason, developing cohesion has been a central theme of camp.
Reflecting on last season’s run to the Eastern Conference Final, Jansen acknowledged progress but made clear the bar has been raised. “We did okay, but we want more,” he said. While reaching the Conference Final marked a significant step, NYCFC ultimately fell short of lifting a trophy. Establishing a winning culture now means improving consistency and finding ways to close out more matches. The coaching staff believes important strides have been made in camp, though replacing key departures will take time as new relationships form within the squad.
Defender Tayvon Gray, entering his fifth season opener at just 23 years old, echoed that sense of growth and evolution. Once an 18-year-old adjusting to the professional level, Gray now feels more comfortable executing the coach’s demands and playing with freedom. He credits natural maturity and setting high personal standards for his development.
With competition increasing at right back, including promising young defender Drew Baiera, Gray remains internally driven. “I’m motivated naturally,” he said. “I play for my family, myself, and the pride in the work I put in.”
Now, preseason preparation turns to opportunity as NYCFC aims to take the next step.
