Former USA Captain Named New York Red Bulls Head Coach as He Follows in His Father’s Footsteps

In a move that has reverberated throughout the soccer community, former U.S. Men's National Team captain Michael Bradley has been appointed as the new head coach of the New York Red Bulls. The announcement, made official on Monday, marks a significant chapter in Bradley's career as he steps into his first major head coaching role, while also following in the footsteps of his father, Bob Bradley, who previously managed the team.

Bradley's appointment comes after a stint as head coach of Red Bull New York II, where he led the team to an MLS NEXT Pro championship in 2025. His success with the second team, coupled with his deep understanding of the club and its philosophy, made him a natural choice to succeed Sandro Schwarz, who was dismissed after the Red Bulls failed to make the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. Schwarz's departure came despite leading the team to the 2024 MLS Cup Final, where they lost to the Los Angeles Galaxy.

"I'm looking forward to getting to work alongside everyone here and do my part to help this club achieve the success our fans deserve,” Bradley said.

The 38-year-old Bradley is no stranger to the Red Bulls organization. He began his professional career with the club in 2004, when it was known as the MetroStars, and played there for two seasons. After a successful playing career in Europe with clubs like Borussia Monchengladbach, Aston Villa, and Roma, Bradley returned to MLS with Toronto FC, where he captained the team to an MLS Cup, a Supporters' Shield, and multiple Canadian Championships. His leadership qualities and tactical acumen were evident throughout his playing career, making him a highly respected figure in American soccer.

"He leads with calm confidence,” said Head of Sport Julian de Guzman. “(He) has a great way of connecting with people. We are excited for Michael to bring his philosophy to our first team and continue to lead our club towards success".

Bradley's coaching experience includes a stint as an assistant under his father at Norwegian club Stabæk Fotball, as well as a guest assistant role with the Canadian national team. He is the second former Red Bulls player to take on the head coaching role, with Mike Petke being the first in 2013.

The Red Bulls are looking to Bradley to bring a fresh approach and return the team to its winning ways. The team finished 10th in the Eastern Conference in 2025, missing the playoffs for the first time in 16 years. To that end, de Guzman has already begun tweaking the roster, with more significant attacking signings expected in the coming days. Bradley is expected to institute a more aggressive, offensive style of play, potentially utilizing a 4-3-3 formation.

As Michael Bradley steps into this new role, he carries with him the weight of expectation, both as a former star player and as the son of a coaching legend. However, his experience, leadership, and deep connection to the Red Bulls organization position him well to lead the team into a new era of success.