The Luis Barraza trade means NYCFC has a battle for the backup goalkeeper | OneFootball

It never made sense why New York City FC had four goalkeepers on the roster in 2024. Yes, Alex Rando played for NYCFC II in the MLS Next Pro, but he could have been fully on their roster rather than the first team.

So, when NYCFC picked up the options of Luis Barraza, Rando, and Tomás Romero, there was some confusion with the decision. There was speculation that somebody would be on their way out, and Barraza made the most sense. That is why it was not shocking when reports said he was being traded to D.C. United for General Allocation Money, or GAM. By picking up the option, the club guarantees they make some money.

Luis Barraza's trade is good for him and the other NYCFC goalkeepers

It did not take long for the club to confirm the trade on Monday. According to NYCFC, Barraza was traded to D.C. and will "receive a guaranteed $50,000 in 2025 GAM with an additional $100,000 in GAM if certain performance metrics are met." The 2019 draft pick made 38 appearances for the team, with the most coming in 2023.

As a reminder, Barraza was named the starter last year. As time went on, the keeper, who everyone hoped would do well, did not perform to the best of his ability. He was not the correct replacement for Sean Johnson. After a few solid performances from Matt Freese, many wanted to see him between the sticks.

By the end of the season, Freese became the starter, and the rest was history. Barraza resumed his role as the backup goalkeeper. However, this trade will give him a second chance to compete for the starting role. He did not do well in his few appearances in 2024, but that does not mean Barraza cannot be successful elsewhere.

Nevertheless, the trade means Rando and Romeo will compete for the backup goalkeeper role, pending no other goalkeeper moves are made. Rando has professional experience in the USL Championship and MLS Next Pro and has been with NYCFC II since 2022. Of course, he is used to the club since he was a member of the academy.

Meanwhile, Romero played in the same leagues but also appeared in Major League Soccer with Los Angeles FC and Toronto FC. He only has one year with NYCFC. Thus far, as the third-string keeper this past season, he did not make an appearance.

It is believed that the two should have an even battle to become the backup to Freese. It is unknown who would be the better choice, so NYCFC fans should pay attention to this during the preseason.