Julián Fernández cannot leave NYCFC unless attackers are on the way | OneFootball

New York City FC will be without Alonso Martínez for some time due to his ACL injury. As such, the team needs to sign a striker for at least the 2026 season. Another attacking player or two is also needed.

The reason is simple: wingers Julián Fernández and Agustín Ojeda have not lived up to their potential. Although they showed promising signs under Pascal Jansen's first season, nothing is guaranteed. Still, the Pigeons will need them, since the star striker will be out. At the same time, it is vital that NYCFC signs other attackers, especially players who can score goals.

The club should not let either player go elsewhere at this time since they have not signed any forwards that could compete for a starting role. That is why it is very concerning that rumors surround Fernández.

NYCFC needs goal-scoring forwards before they let anyone leave

According to multiple reports, Fernández has interest from São Paulo Futebol Clube in Brazil. Per ge.globo.com, the team will supposedly try to bring in the Argentine via a loan deal with an option to buy from NYCFC.

While the winger has not lived up to expectations since signing in the summer of 2023, he did have a decent 2025 season with the Boys in Blue. Fernández had three goals and five assists, often being utilized as a super sub. He took on the role without complaint and usually highlighted his potential when he was on the pitch.

Hence, it is not shocking that another club is interested in Fernández. He still has the potential to be a star, and many hoped he would break out in 2024 and then 2025. The 21-year-old has grown over the last year, but the desire to increase his playing time even more might persuade him to leave the Big Apple. Maybe São Paulo is offering that.

But again, NYCFC has not signed a new striker or winger. Yes, Talles Magno might get a shot at being on the team for the new campaign, but that is unknown at the moment. That is why the Bronx side cannot let Fernández leave unless they have a reliable replacement in the attack. It could be a striker or winger, but the club needs to sign someone.

If, and only if, a couple of goal scorers sign with NYCFC, then Fernández could leave the club. And of course, if he stays, and the winger is not playing where he is consistently contributing in the attack by the summer, then the team could let him go elsewhere.

NYCFC should not give up on Fernández, though. The potential is there, and maybe Jansen could unlock it in 2026. It would not hurt to have him for one more year, because at least the Pigeons know he is a great player off the bench. Ideally, he could turn into a starter or at least play more minutes.