By Juan Carlos Maygua
A striker is never free of criticism, especially in soccer. He can score goals with the left, and be questioned for not scoring with his right. In the end, you can’t please everyone. A narrative that fits perfectly with this season’s Golden Boot winner.
When he arrived three years ago, it was difficult to assess his ability, mainly because he was a young player. Club Atlético Torque listed him as a midfielder. Ironically I took a shot in my first writing piece for NYCFC NATION and predicted his success if he was given enough time. “He plays as an attacking midfielder, but can also play as a striker due to his ability to move in the box”. Shortly after he went to score in his day view with the team. But his first glimpses of stardom came in the MLS is back tournament in Orlando.
The connection that he built with Maxi Moralez allowed the team to move more offensively. In addition, the two-striker system was in motion. Heber Araujo and Taty pulled impressive combinations, sadly the Brazilian suffered a ligament injury, sidelining him for a year. The tournament also affected Maxi, so the team was open to options. The keyword was connections, something that worked well with newcomers Santiago Rodriguez, Talles Magno, and Thiago Andrade. They all adjusted well to the system and allowed Castellanos to develop a lethal presence in the box.
The 2021 season was long and difficult for both Castellanos and NYCFC. From back-to-back fixtures to injuries and scoreless runs, the team stuck together and clinched a playoff spot dramatically. Who can forget the panenka penalty or his rabona tap in? Moments that came with criticism for not scoring when he had chances. What many failed to see was his movements without the ball. His ability to create spaces and drag defenders out of position made him dangerous in every match. Having 8 assists is not easy, but it also speaks about his collective mentality.
In the match that clinched the playoffs against Inter Miami he could have easily gone for the hat trick, but chose to assist Talles Magno. He was also first to point out team unity whenever he had a chance. He supported Maxi after his penalty miss in the Leagues Cup. When a player puts that much emphasis on collective success, he is destined for success. The 19 goals were a direct result of that work ethic, a true professional.
The playoffs are a different story, but Castellanos is making noise for years to come. He already made history after scoring in the biggest home win against DC United. He won the hearts of fans after celebrating his 19th goal with a fan as well as his fan-made flag. Small details that can have a big impact in the future. It was a great season nonetheless, but there are many things to achieve. We have yet to see the Heber Taty partnership, as well as a national team, call up. These are all very real possibilities if he continues to play at this level, but only time will tell.
In the end I’m happy my prediction about him came true, hopefully, we haven’t seen the best of him yet. My next prediction for now? He’s Europe bound. I’m sure Manchester City is already keeping a close look.
Felicidades Taty, ¡Vamos por más!.