NYCFC news roundup: Zidane Yañez's loan, the World Cup, and more | OneFootball

New York City FC is in the middle of their long break as Major League Soccer is paused for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Boys in Blue will not play again until July 22, pending any friendlies that may be scheduled as the teams get closer to the resumption of the 2026 campaign.

The focus will be on the World Cup, though, and rightfully so. In fact, three NYCFC players will be at the summer tournament: Matt Freese, Aiden O'Neill, and Kai Trewin. Hence, fans will be able to watch the players with their national teams.

That does not mean that the news cycle stops for the Queens team. With plenty to cover, here is a look at the latest NYCFC news roundup.

NYFCFC loans out Zidane Yañez

On Wednesday, NYCFC announced that the team has loaned out Zidane Yañez to Huntsville City FC in the MLS Next Pro League. The loan will last until the end of the 2026 season.

The move comes after the forward has barely played for NYCFC II. He was signed as a Homegrown player by NYCFC in December 2023, but he is on the off-roster for the first team. Meanwhile, Yañez has barely played for the Baby Pigeons, which is likely why he is heading out on loan.

It is slightly concerning that he has not appeared for NYCFC II too often, making six appearances over the last two seasons. It was clear that when he was signed at 15, he would not play with the first team for some time. But by now, the Homegrown player should be playing more regularly for NYCFC II. Hopefully, the loan will work wonders for Yañez.

Hannes Wolf is the Player of the Month

Hannes Wolf is officially the Player of the Month for May. This is not shocking since his hat-trick against the Columbus Crew ended the winless streak in MLS. At the same time, nobody else truly had a moment as Wolf did, and his overall play was solid in the final few matches afterward.

NYCFC will celebrate the World Cup

NYCFC fans and others can interact with the club and attend events for the World Cup. The team announced the summer of soccer celebration. It will be highlighted by City Corner, which will focus on the move to Queens and introduce others that NYCFC is the soccer team of the Big Apple.

In addition, per NYCFC, "City Corner will be modeled after a classic New York City block, featuring mock storefronts and quintessential city elements inspired by the Club’s identity and connection to New York.  Fans will be able to play games, win prizes and giveaways, enjoy live entertainment and connect with the Club throughout the group stage.  New York City FC’s First Team players and iconic mascot, Sky the Pigeon, will also make appearances for meet and greets throughout the summer activation."

NYCFC will also be involved in World Cup events throughout the tournament, including local watch parties. So, fans can get their daily dose of the Pigeons while watching the biggest event in the world.