Red Bulls' New-Look Under Sandro Schwarz

Sandro Schwarz transformed the "New York Red Bulls", leading the club to their first MLS Cup final since 2008.

In December 2023, the "New York Red Bulls" reached a milestone as German strategist Sandro Schwarz took charge of the team. He was tasked with revamping both the club mentality and their on-field performance.

A year after his arrival, "Red Bulls" have reached the MLS Cup final for the first time since 2008, now just one win away from securing their first Eastern Conference league championship, despite being a founding member of the league since 1996.

"Being in the final means a lot to us, defining our philosophy, identity, and the culture we aim to build," the 46-year-old "Red Bulls" coach shared in an exclusive interview.

This postseason, "Red Bulls" became the first No. 7 seed to advance to the final, overcoming reigning champions "Columbus Crew," followed by away victories over "New York City FC" and "Orlando City."

"Our focus wasn't on away games, but on winning for ourselves, the club, and fans both in stadiums and on screens," the team's manager commented.

The title match will be hosted at 4 p.m. ET at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA, where "Red Bulls" aim for their first tournament title in a decade.

Some have dubbed their journey a "cinderella story," including club legend Bradley Wright-Phillips. Nonetheless, Schwarz dismissed this notion, stating, "it's not a surprise that we're here and playing tomorrow." Those surprised are at fault themselves, not the "Red Bulls."