Here are your Etihad Player of the Month nominees for May.
Nicolás Fernández Mercau
The Argentine continued his impressive run of form with another influential month for New York City FC.
Fernández Mercau played a central role in New York City’s commanding 3-0 victory against Columbus Crew, registering two assists as Pascal Jansen’s side produced an emphatic 3-0 victory. His creativity and composure in the final third repeatedly caused problems for the Crew defense.
He followed that up by scoring the only goal in a hard-fought 1-0 win against Charlotte FC, delivering once again in a key moment for the team.
The 26-year-old remained an influential figure during the Hudson River Derby, registering an assist in the 1-1 draw against the Red Bulls before adding a well-taken penalty in the 2-1 defeat to Charlotte.
Whether creating chances or finding the net himself, Fernández Mercau continues to establish himself as one of the league’s most dangerous attacking players.
Hannes Wolf
Hannes Wolf enjoyed a strong month after producing one of the standout performances of the MLS season.
The Austrian forward scored a sensational hat-trick in New York City FC’s 3-0 victory against Columbus Crew, combining sharp movement with clinical finishing to overwhelm the Crew.Â
Wolf carried that momentum into the following match against Charlotte FC, where he registered an assist in another important 1-0 victory for New York City.
Beyond his attacking output, Wolf’s tireless work ethic continues to make him a vital figure in Pascal Jansen’s side. A relentless presser who contributes on both sides of the ball, his intensity regularly helps set the tone for the team.
Matt Freese
Matt Freese once again demonstrated why he has become such an important presence for New York City FC this season.
The goalkeeper recorded back-to-back clean sheets in victories against the Columbus Crew and Charlotte FC this month, producing composed and assured displays behind a disciplined New York City defense.
Freese also delivered a standout performance in the Hudson River Derby against the Red Bulls, making a number of huge saves to help preserve a valuable point on the road.
Reliable under pressure and capable of producing big moments when called upon, Freese continues to be one of the league’s most dependable goalkeepers.
