NYCFC Signs Goalkeeper Mac Learned to First Team Roster for 2026 Season
New York City FC has bolstered its goalkeeper roster by signing 23-year-old Mac Learned, who previously played for NYCFC II in MLS Next Pro. The contract is guaranteed through the 2026 season with options for extension until 2029. Standing at 6-foot-4, Learned hails from Lincoln, California, and briefly played for the MLS squad last season under a Short-Term Agreement. He now transitions to the NYCFC First Team for the upcoming 2026 season, taking over the spot previously held by Alex Rando.
This signing marks the first move made by NYCFC since the appointment of new Sporting Director Todd Dunivant. Dunivant expressed his excitement about Learned's promotion to the First Team, highlighting the club's commitment to player development through MLS Next Pro. With Assistant Coach Rob Vartughian overseeing the goalkeepers, NYCFC aims to strengthen the position with the addition of Learned alongside Matt Freese, Tomás Romero, and Greg Ranjitsingh.
Learned's journey to NYCFC began during the preseason ahead of the 2026 season after his collegiate career at Sacramento State University. He made a notable professional debut for NYCFC II, securing a clean sheet in a 2-0 victory over Columbus Crew 2. Throughout the season, Learned's performance as a starter for NYCFC II included five wins, two draws, and seven losses, with the draws resulting in penalty-shootout defeats.
In conclusion, Mac Learned's signing with the NYCFC First Team signifies a significant step in his career progression and showcases NYCFC's dedication to nurturing talent within its ranks. With a strong goalkeeper lineup in place, the club looks forward to the contributions of Learned as they prepare for the upcoming season.