3 NYCFC Players That Could *Theoretically* Make it in The Premier League

NYCFC have one of the most talented rosters in all of MLS. They have a handful of proven goal-scorers, they have experienced defenders who seldom make errors, and they have a midfield capable of dictating play in the middle of the park. It is an extremely well balanced squad capable of downing any side in the league - and that’s why they’re the reigning champions here in the United States and Canada.

NYCFC Team Photo (via NYCFC)

But, how many players on this squad could make it on the next level. Better yet, what about the highest level in domestic football - the Premier League? Here, in some purely theoretical food for thought, let’s explore some players that I think would be able to hold their own on football’s most highly rated stage.

1. Taty Castellanos

Did you really think he could stay out of a list like this? The reigning MLS golden boot winner and NYCFC's talisman, Taty Castellanos, could be among the most qualified players in all of MLS to play in the Premier League. In fact, this hypothetical almost became reality this past January, when there were repots of both West Ham and Leeds United demonstrating interest in the young Argentine.

Taty Castellanos Dribbles Past Victor Wanyama (via NYCFC)

But, Taty is still primed for a move somewhere either this summer, or the transfer window thereafter. And, I have to say, while NYCFC will surely miss him as a player, I could not be more excited to see what this guy can do in Europe.

In my opinion, if he were to leave NYCFC this season (with the form he is in), he could be the most complete striker this league has ever exported. Period. He has absolutely everything you could ask for in a number 9: pace, power, composure in front of goal, aerial ability, strong hold-up play, and a high defensive work rate. Pepper this in with the fact that he’s a proven goalscorer, and he has unreal flair, and I can see him becoming a fan favorite anywhere he ends up.

Taty on the ball at Vancouver Whitecaps (via NYCFC)

To revisit those rumors, I can certainly see him performing at a solid level and getting decent minutes at a club like West Ham or Leeds. Even with the vast increase in the level of play over there, I think his combination of class and work rate would see him find success just about anywhere.

2. Alexander Callens

Judging a center back can always be a little bit more difficult than other positions, but I think Alex Callens might just have what it takes to make it on the big stage. He’s consistently been among the most underrated CB’s in MLS since his arrival at the club, and last season in particular, I think he could be considered one of the best CB’s in the league. And, there’s the small matter of the MLS cup clinching PK to add to his resume…

Alex Callens Smashes Home an MLS Cup Clinching PK (Via Marcus., Youtube)

As a player, Callens is an athletic and well-sized center half. He is tall enough and strong enough to win a ton of areal duels, but also quick enough to chase down attackers in behind for some highlight reel caliber tackles and blocks. He is brave, tough, and likes to get forward as well, netting a surprising number of goals for the club throughout his tenure at NYCFC, including a thunderous volley in the club’s 2022 home opener vs. Montreal.

I would say his weaknesses would reside in his ball playing ability which, while more than adequate for MLS standards, may get exposed at a level as high as the premier league. But, there are plenty of CB at the premier league level who are not the most comfortable on the ball, and that can be okay so long as they are in the right system.

For example, a center half on Burnley, Watford, or Newcastle would mostly be tasked with winning balls in the air, defending set pieces well, and clearing their lines. So, I can see Callens slotting into any team that prefers to play with a low block.

Alex Callens on the Ball (Via NYCFC)

And, not for nothing, but the guy isn’t exactly unproven when it comes to facing high level competition. He’s become a regular starter for Peru in their World Cup Qualifying efforts, which sees him play some of the top talent in world world football down in South America. With Peru ranked #22 in the world by FIFA, he is a key part of a strong team with a solid defense that have only allowed 2 goals in their last 4 matches in WCQ play. Peru currently sit in 5th place of the CONMEBOL WCQ, which puts Callens in a position to potentially play and start in a World Cup this year.

3. Anton Tinnerholm

This one feels a bit odd to put in given he is 31 and hasn’t played in months due to an achilles tear, but hear me out. In terms of footballing ability, I think Tinnerholm has been among our best, and most consistent players before his injury. He absolutely bombs forward with the ball at his feet, but rarely left us as exposed as we saw with another attacking fullback in NYCFC colors in Ronald Matarrita. He has always been extremely effective at picking his moments to join the attack, and understanding when a more defensive approach is necessary.

Anton Tinnerholm on the Ball (Via NYCFC)

He is also weirdly good at smashing home a volley with either foot, from pretty much anywhere inside 20 yards of goal...if that interests anyone?

One of Tinnerholm's many Thunderous Volleys (Via Qualityfirst, Youtube)

In his tenure with NYCFC, he has put up some impressive attacking numbers from right back, with a tally of 9 goals and 21 assists in his 4 seasons with the club. But it’s not just his ability that makes him a threat, it’s his passion. The dude is amped-up at all times, going in hard to challenges, getting under the skin of opponents, and always looking out for his teammates when games get chippy. The Swedish international has always had a sense of experience and leadership about him that would make him valuable to any side - MLS or otherwise.

And, he wouldn’t be a stranger to the high level of competition in England either, as his Malmö days saw him make 14 Champions League appearances over the course of 3 seasons. He also has a handful of appearances for Sweden's National Team as well, which is no small feat.

Anton Tinnerholm Defending Christiano Ronaldo (Via Chicago Tribune)

As far as weaknesses, I can see him getting a bit exposed 1v1 against some of the faster and more skilled dribblers in the Prem, so slotting him in the right system would be key. Maybe in a wing-back role (RB in a 5 back) could provide him with a bit more defensive cover while giving him more license to go forward? So, clubs like Wolves or Everton come to mind as teams that play with a wing-back system and that play at a more reasonable level for the Swede.

Now, at 31 coming off an achilles tear, I’m not suggesting that this is likely at all to happen. But, that’s not the point of this article. I’m merely suggesting that if given the opportunity, he probably could get it done out there given his ability, his experience, and his work rate.