2026 Roster and Transfer Discussion Thread

[ZYanksRule]

That's a real shame about Haak, but probably should have been predictable. The conversation we were having earlier about how CFG thinks its scouting network is so great and so impactful, they probably think they can replace Haak for less than what he's making. It's a poor job by the Club, and a decision that will probably come back to bite them, but this probably shouldn't come as a surprise.

You also look at this roster, we currently have Martins, Gustavo, Parks, O'Neill, and maybe Perea in the CB and D-Mid spots. All are making significant money. Signing Haak to a $1 million+ contract in addition to already having those guys is surplus goods. If we're looking at this rationally, the money Haak would get can probably best be used elsewhere on the roster, especially in a capped league where there's only so much to go around.

 

[gbservis]

You also look at this roster, we currently have Martins, Gustavo, Parks, O'Neill, and maybe Perea in the CB and D-Mid spots. All are making significant money. Signing Haak to a $1 million+ contract in addition to already having those guys is surplus goods. If we're looking at this rationally, the money Haak would get can probably best be used elsewhere on the roster, especially in a capped league where there's only so much to go around.

If that's the case, then they should have declined the team option on Martin's contract. It sounds extreme, but if we are saying Haak has to go because we are already invested in the positions, how about we dump the guy taking up the largest resource in a DP spot. What would you rather:

Option 1: DP Martins + Raul, Haak gone
Option 2: Haak + Raul and a free DP spot

I'm going with option 2. Haak is 24 years old, can play two positions well, and has possibly shown more year over year improvement in the last 3 years than any other player on the roster.

 

[ZYanksRule]

If that's the case, then they should have declined the team option on Martin's contract. It sounds extreme, but if we are saying Haak has to go because we are already invested in the positions, how about we dump the guy taking up the largest resource in a DP spot. What would you rather:

Option 1: DP Martins + Raul, Haak gone
Option 2: Haak + Raul and a free DP spot

I'm going with option 2. Haak is 24 years old, can play two positions well, and has possibly shown more year over year improvement in the last 3 years than any other player on the roster.

That's not a linear comparison because they were trying to re-sign Haak during the season and didn't come to an agreement.

Option two is really: Raul, a free DP spot, and the possibility of re-signing Haak.

Will Haak be a DP for whoever signs him? Will he be a high-TAM player? At what price-point are you walking away from him? If he's getting $1.2 million next year, or even if he's going to be a DP, is that something you're walking away from? Free agency can get pretty silly.

 

[Kjbert]

Justin wants to play aboard. Part of the attraction of NYCFC is they are VERY good to these guys and their ambitions.

Maxi wants to return. You should anticipate seeing him back for another season.