Thiago Martins still should not be a Designated Player for NYCFC | OneFootball

For the longest time, many questioned the signing of Thiago Martins. The New York City FC defender joined the Pigeons in 2022 as a Designated Player. The move was shocking, for defenders are not often signed to DP contracts.

Then, the center-back struggled to perform well, failing to live up to his DP tag. Martins has improved since his initial signing and arguably had his best year in 2024. He was a stronger leader, which is why he wore the captain's armband for the team. He also finally scored his first goal for NYCFC in the second playoff match against FC Cincinnati.

Still, the feeling that Martins should not be a DP is unchanged. While he performed better this season, he is still not playing at a DP level. Such a contract should mean that the Brazilian is one of the best center-backs in Major League Soccer. That is not the case. Therefore, NYCFC must revamp his contract to remove the DP status.

Notably, if that is not possible, then the Bronx team might need to sell the player. His contract is being wasted since the club could have a DP midfielder or forward instead. At the same time, he has proved he is worthy of being a starter for NYCFC. If Martins loves this club, then he will rework his contract.

As mentioned, it would be better for the club to have a DP midfielder or forward. That does not necessarily mean the Pigeons need to bring in a player this winter. Rather, they could wait until the summer when more players will be available. Plus, this would give the incoming coaching staff some time to see whether they can turn Jovan Mijatović into the striker he was supposed to be. Thankfully, they have Alonso Martínez regardless of what happens with the Serbian.

Currently, NYCFC would need somebody to lose their DP status in order to bring in another DP. The team is under the U22 Initiative Player Model, which means they can have two DPs and four U22 players. If a U22 player were to depart, then the Pigeons could sign another DP. However, that does not mean Martins should continue to hold that designation. Again, it would be better to have a midfielder or forward with such a contract. Ideally, as good as Martínez has been, the team should sign a DP striker or European star.

With the salary and roster construction restrictions, NYCFC must remove Martins as a DP. Preferably, his contract will be reworked. Although, if they have to move on from the defender, then perhaps with Nick Cushing's departure, a former veteran would be willing to return... That is probably very unlikely, but it would be a dream come true for multiple fans.