Bradley starts coaching career at New York Red Bulls with clear ambition

Michael Bradley was promoted to head coach of the New York Red Bulls after a rapid rise through the club’s ranks, and he says he plans to build a dynamic, aggressive team as the club begins a rebuilding period.

Michael Bradley has been named head coach of the New York Red Bulls after a quick rise from assistant roles and a spell leading the club's MLS Next Pro side. He moved into coaching soon after ending his playing career in 2023 and spent time learning within the Red Bull network in Europe. Club officials described his appointment as a natural fit and said he brings steady leadership and high energy. Bradley has outlined a preference for a faster, more dynamic style of play. What we know: - Bradley was promoted from the Red Bulls' MLS Next Pro head coach to the senior head coach after about seven months in the club's coaching pathway. - He began coaching shortly after retiring as a player in 2023 and worked as an assistant in Norway before returning to the Red Bull organization. - Club leaders, including Julian de Guzman, Mario Gomez and others in Red Bull's soccer structure, met with and vetted Bradley over several months before his promotion. - Bradley described his playing and coaching philosophy as dynamic and aggressive, emphasizing pressing, ball progression and quick decision-making. - The Red Bulls finished 10th in the Eastern Conference in 2025 and the club has described Bradley as a figure to help set a new tone during a rebuilding phase. Summary: The appointment is presented by the club as a fresh start and a chance to reassemble the squad after a disappointing league finish. Bradley is reported to be working with head of sport Julian de Guzman to build the team and implement his preferred style of play. Undetermined at this time.