Jefferson Mena didn't expect to play as soon as he did.
The newest New York City FC signing, who joined the Club on July 14, was thrust into action in Sunday's 5-3 victory over Orlando City SC at Yankee Stadium, coming on in the 14th minute to replace the injured Chris Wingert.
The central defender was pleased to make his club debut despite the circumstance.
"I'm very happy," Mena said. "I didn't expect to play so soon, but I handled it and I'm very happy about my debut and the victory."
New York City FC head coach Jason Kreis was pleased with the Colombian's performance in the center of the back line.
"He showed a lot of good signs and did a lot of good things," Kreis said. "Like all of the new signings, it will take some time for him to adjust, though."
Mena, 26, was third on the team with four tackles, second with three interceptions and gained possession a team-leading 10 times.
Despite having less than a week of practice under his belt with New York City FC, Mena said he feels comfortable with his new teammates.
"The players are all very good people," he said. "They're helping me a lot with my English. I think I'm going to fit well moving forward."
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