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Anybody who saw last week’s game against FC Cincinnati could’ve probably guessed that Maxi Moralez would be out of action for New York City FC for at least one game. And as expected, the prognosis of his injury isn’t all too encouraging.
“It’s a ligament inside one of his knees,” manager Ronny Deila told the press on Friday ahead of NYCFC’s Saturday matchup against the New England Revolution. “I don’t think it’s pulled... it’s a damage tear and [Moralez will be out for] four to six weeks.”
Deila says Maxi Moralez has possibly sustained a small tear in his knee and will be out 4-6 weeks #NYCFC
— Hudson River Blue (@hudsonriverblue) September 18, 2020
Not great news. But that was to be expected. What’s troubling is all the other players who are questionable this weekend.
Deila went on to update everyone on Ronald Matarrita’s condition, saying he’s “not sure” about his availability tomorrow. Deila also insinuated that Jesus Medina had some type of issue, but would not disclose exactly what the ailment could be. Additionally, James Sands will also miss the game due to yellow card accumulation.
That leaves four — FOUR! — regular starters either unavailable or questionable for Saturday against a Revs team that desperately wants to avenge their 2-0 loss to NYCFC at Gillette Stadium a few weeks ago,
Obviously, City aren’t short of capable replacements. Maxi’s injury and Medina’s questionable status could open the door for players like Alexandru Mitrita and Ismael Tajouri-Shradi to possibly earn some minutes. Matarrita was replaced valiantly by Gudi Thorarinsson last week against Cincinnati, so you have some depth there.
Sands’ suspension is bittersweet. The young Homegrown Player has been among City’s best players all season. But his absence paves the way for fans to get a good look at Nicolas “Cacha” Acevedo, a highly touted defensive midfielder with stunning playmaking abilities.