HARRISON, NJ - The new york Red Bulls are navigating a challenging season, employing a tactical shift under head coach Sandro Schwarz as they battle for a playoff berth in the highly competitive Eastern Conference. While the team currently sits in 10th place, their points-per-game average actually exceeds that of last year’s squad.
This year’s Red Bulls team distinguishes itself through a slower tempo and increased passing frequency per possession – a departure from red Bull new York sides of the past decade. Schwarz hasn’t drastically altered fundamental strategies, but the emphasis on possession is notable.
The tactical adjustment centers on the team’s line of confrontation, typically a mid-block implemented both offensively and defensively. This strategy aims to enable midfielders, often featuring Daniel Edelman alongside Forsberg, to quickly deliver passes to attackers in the final third.
The philosophy is to build play through short, controlled passes in the defensive and middle thirds, creating space for longer, penetrating balls into the opponent’s defensive line. The intention is to draw opposing players forward while maintaining possession, exploiting the resulting gaps.
Despite the theoretical benefits, the execution has been inconsistent, contributing to the team’s precarious playoff position with the season nearing September.
The Red Bulls are expected to continue with their standard 4-2-3-1 formation.Brandt Bronico is anticipated to maintain his role as a pressing 10, filling in for the injured Biel. New acquisition Harry Toffolo is highly likely to feature as a substitute, as Dean Smith appears hesitant to disrupt a lineup that has secured consecutive victories.
Following two consecutive wins, the team will likely field the same starting eleven that defeated Philadelphia last weekend, maintaining the 4-2-3-1 setup.
