Here are your nominees for the Etihad Player of the Month for April 2022.
Taty Castellanos
The talented 23-year-old is rightly considered one of the most dangerous strikers in Major League Soccer and he reaffirmed that reputation in April.
His first goal in MLS this season would arrive against Real Salt Lake; a powerful header reminding the league’s defenders how good he is in the air. That was the first of four goals he’d net that day, including a pair from the penalty spot.
He followed that up with a fifth goal of the campaign in NYCFC’s next outing against Toronto FC. The 5-4 classic also saw Castellanos turn provider for Santiago Rodríguez as he once again showed his importance to the team in the final third.
Thiago Andrade
A bright and exciting young forward, Thiago made a strong first impression after joining the Club last year.
This season has already seen him well on course to surpassing his league minutes total from 2021, and he has responded to that show of faith with some impressive performances on the field. A goal and assist in the Concacaf Champions League tie against Seattle was built upon with a brace against RSL in April.
Showing his speed and soccer IQ for his first goal, Thiago’s blend of skills makes him a constant threat down the right where Ronny Deila has chosen to use him most. A further goal and assist against Toronto FC rounded out what has been a good month for the forward as he continues his development.
Alex Callens
The towering defender has carried his brilliant form in 2021 into this year and that has benefited NYCFC tremendously.
Playing three times in MLS in April, Callens was a large reason the team emerged two wins and a clean sheet. His commanding presence means MLS forwards are in for a tough challenge when coming up against him.
That has helped NYCFC record the fourth-best defence in the Eastern Conference, and also provided the team a platform to succeed. A central figure in the team’s success on the field, Callens continues to produce performances of the highest level as April proved.
