Matt Freeze Surprised by MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Nomination

Matt Freeze isn’t really one to boast about his achievements, so it wasn’t shocking when he found out he was a finalist for MLS Goalkeeper of the Year through an email from his girlfriend. “I honestly didn’t even know that was happening,” he mentioned to reporters after practice, likely more focused on the impending playoff match against Charlotte FC. His mind was clearly on winning rather than any individual recognition.

What might not be surprising, though, is Freeze’s nomination. Over the past two seasons, he’s been one of the standout goalkeepers in the league—missing out on the finalist spot last year was a bit controversial. Now, he’s also become a regular starter for the U.S. men’s national team, just under a year ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

This season, Freeze has recorded eight clean sheets, made 96 saves, and conceded 42 goals in 31 starts for NYCFC. His coach, Pascal Jansen, has praised him for bringing “consistency” to the team. “He’s a huge factor in our stability,” Jansen noted, adding that reaching the national team’s No. 1 spot has likely boosted Freeze’s confidence. “When I think about growth, both for myself and others, Matt Freese is one of the first players that comes to mind,” he added, somewhat thoughtfully.

As NYCFC heads into the playoffs next week, Freeze’s performance will be crucial. Yet, there are other variables to consider. For instance, Hannes Wolff, the team’s second-leading scorer, missed practice recently. Although some team members were feeling under the weather, Jansen mentioned Wolff’s absence was due to a “physical issue,” without elaborating further.

Wolff’s status will be monitored closely in the coming days, but Jansen seems confident about his team’s depth. “Even if he can’t go on Tuesday, we still have other capable attackers ready to step up,” he affirmed.