FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – It was almost one year ago to the day that Krisztián Németh arrived in New England as part of a deadline-day deal, and on Monday evening the Hungarian’s year-long stint came to an end as he was traded to Sporting Kansas City, reuniting him with his first MLS club.
Németh, who joined the Revs with much fanfare thanks to his 10-goal, six-assist season with SKC in 2015, never quite hit the heights in Foxborough, registering just one goal and three assists in 21 appearances, including a pair of assists in 15 appearances this year under Brad Friedel.
Friedel praised Németh’s professionalism and work ethic during his time with the Revolution, but pointed to a calf injury that sidelined Németh for much of preseason as an unfortunate blow. That opened the door for Teal Bunbury – who leads the Revs with 11 goals – to grab hold of the striker position.
From there, Németh found it difficult to break into the squad, seeing action primarily off the bench.
“He was a little bit unfortunate in preseason when he picked up an injury early doors, and Teal really solidified the number nine spot, which is probably Krisztián’s best position,” said Friedel. “I really think it’s a move that suited all parties … We want to thank [Krisztián] for his professionalism while he was here, and I really hope his move goes well for him to Sporting Kansas City.”
While the move gives SKC the goal-scoring forward they craved, New England receives $350,000 in allocation money ($250,000 in TAM and $100,000 in GAM) and Sporting’s natural first-round SuperDraft pick in 2020.
Perhaps just as importantly Németh’s departure opens up an international spot on the Revolution’s roster, as the addition of Englishman Michael Mancienne last week had filled the Revs’ quota.
Exactly when the Revs will fill that international spot remains to be seen – the transfer window closes on Wednesday evening, while clubs can sign unattached players through the roster freeze on September 14 – but there’s no question New England have the flexibility to bolster the squad in the future.
“Deals are always possibilities,” said Friedel. “If we can get one over the line, then great. If we can’t, then great – we have a very good squad here, as I’ve said many, many times.
“Having the international spot – whether it be for now or whether it be in January going on into next season – that’s a good thing to have.”
