May 22, 2021; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; New York City FC defender Gudmundur Thorarinsson (20) before the game against the Columbus Crew at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Before the 2021 season could even begin for New York City FC, there were questions about the strength of the roster, and whether the team could compete in the Eastern Conference. Back in March, head coach Ronny Deila made the claim that he needed more quality players, and the current roster lacked depth.