Thiago Martins and Keaton Parks Depart New York City FC

New York City FC announced on Thursday that team captain Thiago Martins and veteran midfielder Keaton Parks will depart the club as both players reach the end of their current contracts.

The move changes the club's direction, as mlssoccer reported that the roster overhaul follows a challenging 2026 campaign where the team finished 11th in the Eastern Conference with 42 points and missed the Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs. The departures come shortly after the club parted ways with head coach Pascal Jansen following the conclusion of Decision Day.

Thiago Martins, a Brazilian center back who joined the squad ahead of the 2022 season, leaves behind a substantial legacy in the Bronx. Over his five-season tenure, he made 174 appearances across all competitions, cementing his status as the club’s seventh-place all-time appearance leader. His impact was recognized formally in 2024 when he was selected as an MLS All-Star.

Video: New York City FC

Keaton Parks exits the club as one of its most enduring figures. With eight seasons in New York, Parks accumulated 228 appearances in all competitions—the second-most in the history of the franchise. During his time with the club, he played a central role in the 2021 MLS Cup and 2022 Campeones Cup championship runs, contributing 20 goals and 18 assists along the way.

The roster decisions extend beyond the two veteran departures. NYCFC confirmed that fullback Mitja Ilenič had his contract option declined. Meanwhile, the club remains in active negotiations regarding the future of two other players: club legend Maxi Moralez and forward Luighi.

Moralez is currently navigating a recovery process following an ACL injury sustained in May. Luighi, who joined the club on loan from Brazilian Série A side Palmeiras, made 14 appearances and scored four goals during his stint in New York.

The club also provided clarity on its remaining contract options. The following players have had their options exercised:

Video: New York City FC

Nico Cavallo (D)
Malachi Jones (F)
Max Murray (D)

Conversely, the following players have had their contract options declined:

Kam Acito (D)
Arnau Farnós (F)
Cooper Flax (M)
Mitja Ilenič (D)
Kevin Pierre (M)
Thiago Martins (D)
Matt Miazga (D)
Keaton Parks (M)
Mac Learned (GK)
Maxi Moralez (M)
Luighi (F)

As the front office prepares for the upcoming off-season, the departure of two core leaders shows how much the organization must rebuild. With the head coaching vacancy and large gaps in the defensive and midfield rotations, management will focus on replacing the production of veterans like Martins and Parks in the coming months.