When the conversation turns to Argentine stars in MLS, the spotlight usually lands on global names. In 2026, however, another player is forcing his way into that discussion, which is becoming hard to ignore.
Nicolás Fernández Mercau has emerged as one of the most in-form players in Major League Soccer, and his recent performances are raising a legitimate question: is he the most slept-on star in the league? Through nine matches with New York City FC, Fernández Mercau is putting together what looks like a Landon Donovan MVP-caliber campaign.
His latest statement came at Yankee Stadium, where he scored twice in a chaotic 4-4 draw against FC Cincinnati. The brace pushed his season total to eight goals, just one behind Golden Boot leader Petar Musa.Fernández has already moved ahead of established MLS scorers like Sam Surridge and even Lionel Messi in the early Golden Boot race.
His impact goes beyond a hot streak
With his latest goals, Fernández Mercau became just the fourth player in NYCFC history to score at least 10 goals within his first 20 regular-season appearances, and the first since Héber in 2019. It’s one of the strongest starts the club has seen, especially for a player who only joined as a Designated Player midway through last season.
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During last year’s MLS Cup Playoffs, Nicolás produced key performances to help eliminate Charlotte FC and Philadelphia Union. That ability to show up in big moments has carried over into 2026, where he’s taken on an even larger role.
With striker Alonso Martínez sidelined by a torn ACL, Fernández has stepped into the No. 9 role and kept his team competitive. His versatility, which includes moving from a supporting role into a primary scoring option, has been critical for a team currently sitting mid-table in the Eastern Conference.
Why isn’t he getting more attention?
New York FC doesn’t always command the same national spotlight as some other MLS clubs, and Fernández doesn’t carry the global profile of bigger names in the league. Statistically and stylistically, though, he’s producing at a level that demands recognition.
There’s also the broader context of MLS, where star power is often tied to reputation as much as performance. Players like Messi naturally dominate headlines, which can leave others, even those performing at an elite level – flying under the radar.
If Nicolás continues at this pace, he won’t just be part of the MVP conversation. His goal-scoring consistency, ability to deliver in key moments and expanded role within his squad’s attack all point to a player entering his prime in real time. And for now, the label fits.
