Last August, New York City FC coach Patrick Vieira conceded the Supporters’ Shield to Toronto FC with nearly two months of the season still to play.
Based on his recent remarks during City's preseason visit to Mexico, he expects this year’s chase to stretch longer.
Speaking to assembled media Monday ahead of NYCFC’s friendly against Atletico San Luis, Vieira said the Cityzens have improved in each of their previous three MLS seasons and are currently constructed to match up with any MLS side.
"The East will be really tough, really difficult, but we have the squad to compete against some of the best teams in the league," he said.
Jesus Medina practices with NYCFC in Mexico | Courtesy of New York City FC
Although Paraguayan prospect Jesus Medina has arrived and England U-21 Jack Harrison has departed, NYCFC have gone through fewer offseason personnel changes than most.
Vieira believes he’s built a side that is capable of problem solving and getting better from within.
“I want to have leaders on the field, and I like to give players responsibility,” he said, noting that striker David Villa is one such player. “Because as a coach, I can’t just give them the philosophy and the way we play. … The players on the field have to take responsibility.”
