Red Bulls hire Sandro Schwarz as head coach

Field Level Media|published: Thu 14th December, 11:05 2023

Oct 25, 2023; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls fans cheer during the first in the Eastern Conference Wild Card match of the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs at Red Bull Arena. credits: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Red Bulls announced the hiring of head coach Sandro Schwarz on Thursday.

Schwarz, 45, most recently managed Hertha BSC in his native Germany.

He played 12 seasons (1998-2009) before head coaching stints at multiple European clubs, including Russia's Dynamo Moscow (2020-22) and his hometown club Mainz 05 (2017-19).

"We are very pleased to welcome Sandro (Schwarz) to the club," said Red Bulls head of sport Jochen Schneider. "Sandro is a great leader that fits our culture and his head coaching experience in Europe fits with what we are trying to accomplish. We are excited to get him here and begin to work towards success in 2024."

The Red Bulls fired interim coach Troy Lesesne on Nov. 14. He replaced Gerhard Struber, who was fired on May 8 with the team in last place.

Schwarz becomes the MLS franchise's 20th coach in 29 seasons.

"I look forward to joining the club and getting started soon," Schwarz said. "I have a lot of motivation to accomplish many great things with this club and I am excited to get to work for the upcoming season."

The Red Bulls rallied to finish eighth in the Eastern Conference in 2023 and lost to FC Cincinnati in Round One of the playoffs.

—Field Level Media