Here are your Etihad Player of the Month nominees for October.
Nicolás Mercau
October saw the Argentine playmaker take another step forward in his New York City FC journey.
A tireless presence off the ball, Nico’s mix of defensive diligence and attacking quality made him one of the team’s most consistent performers. His ability to cut through defenses with a clever pass or combine with teammates made him a constant threat in the final third.
Mercau’s influence was clear on the final day of the MLS regular season as he scored against Seattle Sounders, rounding off a smart New York City move in the process. Showing his quality once again in the playoffs during New York City’s 1-0 win against Charlotte, he will hope to maintain that form during the rest of 2025.
Providing his team with a combination of grit, intelligence, and technical poise, he is a worthy nominee for this month.
Andrés Perea
Versatile, dynamic, and dominant, Perea’s performances in October showcased his growing influence in New York City’s midfield.
A physical presence in the heart of midfield, Perea is never afraid to venture forward and add his name to the scoresheet. Clattering the crossbar in the playoff game against Charlotte, it was his vital header that teed up Alonso Martínez’s goal to give New York City a win on the night in North Carolina.
Nicknamed ‘Pepe’, his tireless work ethic on and off the ball is a huge reason why the team has been successful, and combined with decisive moments in defense and attack, makes him a worthy nominee for October’s award.
Alonso Martínez
A dangerous and talented forward, Alonso Martínez reminded everyone just why he is so respected in MLS.
Whether it’s his intelligent running off the ball or his deadly finishing, the Costa Rican international poses a constant threat in the final third and carried that form into the playoffs against Charlotte FC in Game 1.
A fierce presser, he leads the line for New York City and has been a major factor in the team’s success in 2025. A worthy nominee for October, he will be keen to continue his stellar goal-scoring form for what remains of the year.
