Sandro Schwarz Transforms New York Red Bulls: Road to First MLS Cup

New York Red Bulls on the Verge of MLS Cup Glory

CARSON, Calif -- When Sandro Schwarz took over the New York Red Bulls in December 2023, the German coach faced the daunting task of transforming both the mentality of the club and their performances on the pitch.

Fast forward one year, and Schwarz has led the Red Bulls to the MLS Cup final for the first time since 2008. This remarkable achievement puts them just one victory away from clinching their first league championship, despite being a founding member of the league since 1996.

Schwarz’s Vision for the Red Bulls

In an exclusive interview with GOAL ahead of Saturday's championship game against the LA Galaxy, Schwarz expressed the significance of reaching the final. "That we are in the final means a lot for us, for the whole club, for our atmosphere, for our philosophy, for identity and for the culture we want to create," said the 46-year-old manager.

Historic Playoff Performance

The No. 7 seed Red Bulls have stormed through the MLS postseason in 2024, overcoming hurdles like defending champions Columbus Crew in the opening round. Their remarkable journey continued with two more road victories against rivals, New York City FC, and Orlando City in the Eastern Conference final.

With this feat, the Red Bulls have become the first No. 7 seed to play for the championship, joining the 1998 Chicago Fire as the only teams to win three consecutive playoff matches on the road.

Road Warriors Mentality

"We started the first round in Columbus. It wasn’t our main topic to talk about playing on the road," Schwarz remarked. "Our main focus was on winning for ourselves and for our supporters, whether in the stadium or watching from home."

As the Red Bulls prepare to face LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on Saturday at 4 p.m. ET, the stakes are high. The Red Bulls aspire to secure their first title, while LA seeks to end a decade-long championship drought.

Underdog Status?

Many view the Red Bulls' postseason success as an "underdog" run, a sentiment echoed by club legend and Apple TV analyst Bradley Wright-Phillips. However, Schwarz firmly refutes this claim. "It's not the biggest surprise that we are sitting here together and that we are playing tomorrow. If anyone is surprised, well, that's on them, not the Red Bulls," the coach asserted.

The Future Looks Bright

As anticipation builds for the championship match, Red Bulls fans are hopeful that their team can clinch the trophy. With the unity and passion of the supporters, along with a strong strategy on the field, the Red Bulls have positioned themselves for an unforgettable conclusion to their season.

Conclusion

Regardless of the outcome on Saturday, Sandro Schwarz has already set the groundwork for a revitalized franchise. The Red Bulls symbolize determination, ambition, and the unyielding belief that success is possible—no matter the odds.