Did you Know?
The 1996 season was the first season in New York/New Jersey MetroStars’s existence, in the first season of American Major League Soccer. They played their home games at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The team played 38 matches in the season including 35 Major League Soccer games and 3 friendlies. Eddie Firmani coached the team for their first eight games before being replaced by Carlos Queiroz.
Did you Know?
After winning his fifth Serie A title with Milan, and following the retirement of several key Milan players, including Franco Baresi and Mauro Tassotti, as well as the departure of manager Fabio Capello, Roberto Donadoni temporarily retired from professional football, although he later went on to play in the MLS in the United States. The NY/NJ MetroStars of Major League Soccer made him a centerpiece of their franchise when they signed him in 1996. During his first year with the Metros, he was recalled to the Italian national team. He proved a solid performer, being named to the league Best XI in 1996, and was also named an MLS Eastern Conference All-Star, winning the inaugural 1996 MLS All-Star Game 3–2 over the Western Conference MLS All-Stars. Unfortunately, Donadoni’s play could not bring the MetroStars any success as a club. In total, Donadoni scored six goals for the MetroStars.
NEW YORK METROSTARS
2001
Match Worn Shirt
Mohammed Dahir
Did you Know?
The 2001 MLS season was shortened due to the September 11 attacks, with the final weeks’ regular season matches canceled. The playoffs, however, would still be played, and the San Jose Earthquakes would win their first MLS Cup.