Former Toronto FC captain Michael Bradley has been named as the new head coach of the New York Red Bulls, describing it as an “incredible opportunity.” Bradley takes over from Sandro Schwarz, who was let go in October after a two-year stint. The Red Bulls missed the playoffs this season, breaking a streak of 15 consecutive postseason appearances.
Bradley, 38, retired as a player in 2023 after a decade with Toronto FC. He quickly transitioned to coaching, serving as an assistant coach at Norway’s Stabaek under his father before taking the reins of the Red Bulls’ reserve team earlier this year. In a successful spell, Bradley guided the Red Bulls II to the MLS Next Pro Cup title in November.
The former U.S. national team captain expressed his excitement at the swift progression in his coaching career, having joined the Red Bulls organization earlier in the year. Bradley, who won 151 caps for the U.S. between 2006 and 2019, has a longstanding connection with the Red Bulls, having been drafted by the franchise (then known as the MetroStars) in 2004 when his father was the team’s coach.
Bradley’s arrival has already brought changes to the Red Bulls, with a focus on building a younger, faster, and more dynamic team. He emphasized his commitment to creating an attractive style of play and setting high standards for the team, aiming for more than just playoff qualification. Bradley’s leadership qualities and experience as a player are expected to play a crucial role in his coaching tenure with the Red Bulls.
