New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese is in high demand as the young American made his first team debut for the US Men’s National team over the weekend. Despite the loss, an appearance on such a stage shows that he is not only in the mix, but catching the eye of coaches that could see him as a future flag bearer in the position.
For City, that means they will be without their star goalkeeper heading into Thursday night’s match against Atlanta United. While not a situation that most head coaches would like to be in, Pascal Jansen knows that this is part of Freese’s development and a reward for what has been a phenomenal few years for the player.
“It’s confirmation that Matt is still developing himself and moving forward in a very good direction,” said Jansen when asked about the call-up. “He’s been a massive piece for us going into this season. I think he played some really good matches for us over 17 matches that we’ve played and he earned his spot within the national team.”
The situation does present an opportunity. In steps 24 year-old El Salvadorian goalkeeper Tomas Romero. Thus far the back-up keeper has yet to play a game for NYC but finds himself thrusts into the spotlight at Yankee Stadium against Atlanta. For City, it is a big moment as they look to change course after a loss to Houston Dynamo in their last home game.
Romero has seen time with NYCFC’s reserve team in MLS Next Pro, making four starts last season but yet to see the field in 2025.
“I have to prepare every weekend as if I’m going to play,” said Romero about his mindset heading into the game on Thursday. “You never know what’s going to happen. Matt Freese has had a few moments in games where maybe he’s injured, maybe not, so I’ve always tried to be ready.”
NYCFC currently sit in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, out of the playoff bubble on goal difference alone. A win over Atlanta would put pressure on Chicago and Charlotte heading into the weekend.
photo by Jordan Banks