Nicolas Fernandez Joins New York City FC

Nicolas Fernandez recently shared his excitement about joining New York City FC, standing at the iconic Rockefeller Center’s Rock Observation Deck during a promotional shoot for the club. He described the decision to join as making it “easy” for him to adapt to his new surroundings.

This week marked his introduction to his new team as NYCFC prepares to unveil its latest signings. The club officially announced on Friday that the 25-year-old Argentinian offensive midfielder would be joining as a designated player, transitioning from Spain’s Elche CF. In an exclusive chat, Fernandez noted that NYCFC expressed a strong interest in him.

“I wanted to take part in this challenge and be a new challenge in my career,” he stated, expressing his eagerness about the move. This season, he’ll be with a team that has enjoyed playoff positions throughout most of the regular season under new head coach Pascal Jansen, though NYCFC has faced challenges in scoring. So far, they’ve ranked 20th in the league with 27 goals and have an expected goal count of 33.38, placing them 17th overall.

Fernandez wrapped up a successful season with Elche, where he helped the team secure promotion to LaLiga. In the 2024-25 season, he achieved a personal best of six goals and contributed a total of 14 goals through assists and scores, making him one of the standout players on the team.

“I bring a lot of battle and grit to the team,” he remarked. “I like to attack, I like to move forward, so that’s something I want to contribute. I want to take ownership of my role, being a bit more aggressive to help us at the end of our attacks.”

While it’s uncertain how he will fit into NYCFC’s overall strategy, Fernandez is hopeful he can help fill the gap left by Santiago Rodriguez, who transferred to a Brazilian team earlier this year.

Primarily playing as a midfielder and winger at Elche, he also has experience as a left-back and wingback. Although he hasn’t had extensive conversations with coach Janssen yet, he arrived without a predetermined position. “The more I train and the more I converse with my coaches, the clearer my role will become,” he mentioned. “I’m here to earn my spot. Nobody gets handed a place. I’m eager to compete with my teammates and secure my position.”

Fernandez could make his debut when the MLS Summer Transfer Window opens on July 24, but it’s still unclear when he will actually take the field with his new team.

Currently, NYCFC is navigating a lengthy stretch away from home, as both Yankee Stadium and Citifield will be utilized as temporary venues until their permanent home at Willett Point is completed in 2027. This situation might set the stage for Fernandez’s debut when NYCFC returns to the field in August.