New York City FC have missed one of their key players in the midfield in the latter part of 2025 as American Keaton Parks battled injury and blood clots that could have shortened his career. Now, the 28 year-old is not only match fit but excited about being a part of what head coach Pascal Jansen has created in just one year with the club.
“He had a long way to go and is still on his way to becoming more healthy to play full games again,” said head coach Jansen to the media. “It was good to see him on the pitch as much as we did during preseason. He’s working hard to get back to the level physically and competitively to be the player we all know he can be.”
Parks, from Plano Texas, has spent the majority of his career with NYC. Making his first appearance for the club in 2019, he quickly made himself an invaluable part of the organization with over 160 appearances to his name. Through that time he also helped the club deliver their first MLS Cup in 2021.
Now, Parks plays a key role in the club’s future. No longer a developing player, his partnership with fellow midfielders Maxi Moralez and Aiden O’Neill is essential to the club’s success in 2026.
“It’s all about finding the right balance,” said Jansen when asked about the team’s midfield chemistry. “The more you can play with the same players, the more chemistry you can create. On the other hand we have to make sure during the week that everybody is prepared, and we have several scenarios in our game plan.”
While Parks may not start in the club’s second game of the season against Philadelphia Union on Sunday, his abilities are paramount to the team’s success. Whether as a starter or a substitute, the midfielder understands just how important of a role he plays in his club’s chances against the Union.
“Our idea every game is to score first,” said Parks when asked about his approach to the game. “That doesn’t change with them or anyone. We’ll be looking to do that again in Philadelphia this weekend and hopefully we can, and get the game plan going.”
photo by Jordan Bank