NYCFC signs draft picks Max Murray and Nico Cavallo for the 2025 season | OneFootball

With the Major League Soccer season beginning tomorrow, New York City FC has had a mostly quiet offseason in regards to new signings. The Pigeons brought in another goalkeeper and a few Homegrown players. Plus, Maxi Moralez re-signed with the team.

NYCFC is known for bringing in players late in the primary transfer window, so it was not shocking they announced their latest additions the day before the new season.

On Friday, the club announced they signed first-round SuperDraft pick, Max Murray, and third-round pick, Nicholas "Nico" Cavallo to their first professional contracts. Both contracts are for the 2025 season, but there are options through 2028.

NYCFC has two new defenders from the draft

Murray was the 17th overall pick and impressed in his limited appearances in the preseason. That is not surprising since the center-back did help the University of Vermont win the 2024 NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship. Cavallo was the 88th overall pick from UCLA, and has done well in his preseason appearances at left-back.

The two defenders bring depth to the NYCFC backline, which is something they desperately need. If either or both players do not play regularly, then they could get some minutes with NYCFC II in the MLS Next Pro.

Based on the preseason, it appears Cavallo might have the edge over Murray. When Kevin O'Toole was not available, Cavallo easily slotted into the left-back role, impressing with his runs up the pitch, crosses, and defensive work. He still must prove he can play in MLS during the regular season, but it might be possible that the Pigeons have their second left-back.

Plus, Sporting Director David Lee's comments tend to lean that way as well. On newyorkcityfc.com, he said the following about Murray:

"Since the start of preseason, he has demonstrated the signs of potential we saw in him during the draft process and has embraced the opportunities in both training and matches. He has elite physical attributes for a central defender and impressed with his quality on the ball, which will fit our style of play. The transition from college to professional can be challenging. We will support Max through the next stages of his development so we can help maximize his potential and look forward to seeing him make an impact on our roster in the years ahead.”

Then, Lee stated the following about Cavallo:

"Throughout preseason, he has demonstrated a strong work ethic, maturity and the qualities we look for in a player both on-and-off the pitch. Nico has taken full advantage of the opportunities presented to him with some standout performances in preseason with the first team. Nico brings versatility, strong offensive play and defensive reliability to the squad. We believe Nico has the potential to continue developing and contribute to the team this season and beyond.”

It might be possible the Pigeons found some talented players in the draft. Hopefully, Head Coach Pascal Jansen can help develop the two defenders where they can contribute during the 2025 campaign.