Valentin Castellanos reacts to winning MLS Golden Boot with NYCFC

NYCFC striker Valtenin 'Taty' Castellanos has credited his teammates, supporters, and club staff for the role they played in his MLS Golden Boot.

The Argentine striker scored his 19th goal of the regular season in NYCFC's 1-1 draw with the Philadelphia Union on Decision Day, moving him level in the standings with DC United's Ola Kamara.

But Castellanos' eight assists to Kamara's four was enough to bring him the Golden Boot.

Speaking to reporters after Sunday's match, an emotional Castellanos thanked everyone associated with NYCFC for the role they played in his stellar season.

“More than anything it was just the feeling of happiness," he said when asked about celebrating with the fans at the end of the game.

"The tears came down running through my face. It was like I was telling you before about the hard work, my teammates are fundamental in this as well as the coaching staff, and everyone from the Club. From the people who clean [the] training facility, Gerardo, Lalo, and the team’s chef, everyone is fundamental in this," the Argentine added.

"Not only for me but because they help the team, so everyone is happy. I celebrate this victory with all of them and I hope they are all happy with me as well.”

Head coach Ronny Deila expressed his pride in Castellanos, feeling his striker is well-deserving of the individual award.

"It’s a great achievement," he said. "There are so many good players in the league but for him to get top scorer is amazing. If there's someone who has worked hard for it, it’s Taty and I’m very proud of him and at the same time, I really think he deserved it.

"So, a fantastic thing for him and also for the club.” 

Goalkeeper Sean Johnson has had the privilege of looking on and watching Castellanos wreak havoc on opposing defenses from the other end of the pitch. For him, it's the Argentine's relentless work ethic and personality that sets him apart.

“What a person, first and foremost, before we even talk about the soccer player, he’s been someone who is so hungry, who’s given everything, and even led the team in minutes as a striker game in and game out," the USMNT goalkeeper said.

"Through the good times and the bad, he’s been so hungry to score goals for this team. He’s been one player that you can never question his work ethic, he’s the hardest worker in the group and to see him rewarded tonight, amazing! Getting an important goal for us, he’s done that so many times this year so I’m really happy for him.

"Great kid, great head on his shoulders, and such massive potential so I'm extremely happy for him.” 

With the regular season over, NYCFC now turn their attention to the MLS Cup Playoffs, with a home match against Atlanta United coming in the first round later in November.