Per a release on his personal Instagram, right-back Milan Vanacker announced he is out for the remainder of the season due to a right ACL tear. Vanacker suffered a non-contact injury while planting his right foot in a U.S. Open Cup match against New York City FC. This news is a big blow to Rochester, as Vanacker started seven of the first eight games of the season. Vanacker, scored one goal and added another assist in league play, while also netting the game-winning penalty in a shoot-out against FC Motown in the U.S. Open Cup. His efforts will be surely missed by fans and staff alike. We here at Rochester New York FC News wish Milan a swift and happy recovery, and can't wait to see him back out on the pitch healthy!
Verdict: This injury leaves Rochester thin on the right side, with Bruno Baltazar preferring a 3-4-3. On the right side, only Jacob Akanyirige naturally fits into the right-wing back role. Gustavo Rissi can fill in on the right side, he has featured as the right-sided center back, or Geraldo Lopez who started a match as a right-back earlier in the year in a 4-4-2. It is possible for wingers Raymond Drai or even Edward Williams to get some time at right-back, but both players perform better when further up the pitch. Vanacker's injury does open up an international roster spot, with the European seasons ending, many free agents are available starting in June. If Rochester decides against signing another player, there may be a need to switch back to a 4-4-2, perhaps a new formation altogether.
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