NYCFC Ronald Matarrita nominated for 2016 Latino of the Year
Oct 16, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; New York City FC defender Ronald Matarrita (22) passes the ball during the first half against the D.C. United at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

NYCFC was fortunate not to lose any young talent, especially Costa Rican youngster Ronald Matarrita, a nominee for 2016 Latino of the Year.

Jurgen Klinsmann is no longer coach of the U.S. National Team and he has Ronald Matarrita to thank. His performance for Costa Rica in the World Cup qualifiers was exemplary and caught some attention from European clubs.

The 22-year old defender was being linked to Borussia Dortmund as his ability to penetrate from the defensive end and one-on-one tenacious defending. His only problem is with discipline concerning assignments in the system. For now, with Manchester City needing to sign off on any transfers, he is safe.

As further confirmation of his growing reputation, Ronald is competing against the following for MLS Latino of the Year.

  • Roman Torres (Seattle Sounders)
  • Giovani dos Santos (LA Galaxy)
  • Ignacio Piatti (Montreal Impact)
  • Nicolas Lodeiro (Seattle Sounders)
  • Kaka (Orlando City SC)
  • Diego Valeri (Portland Timbers)
  • Joao Plata (Real Salt Lake)

NYCFC feels that another year under Head Coach Patrick Vieira will help smooth out more rough edges. He doesn’t have much as he was named to the MLS Team of the week three times this season and as he was named MLS Defensive Player of 2016, NYCFC has to be quick in utilizing him more as Ronald will end up in Europe before you know it.

I am a veteran sports writer who has contributed to New York City Sporting News, Double G Sports, and Latino Sports. As the Voice of the Voiceless, I serve as the instrument that educates and informs.