Red Bulls stay the course as they continue search for first MLS Cup
The New York Red Bulls topped the Eastern Conference last season, racking up 60 points. That bested their previous club record from two years earlier, when they won the Supporters' Shield. But despite their excellent regular season play, they fell short of their first MLS Cup yet again. Now, in Jesse Marsch's second season, and with Ali Curtis' 300-page plan no longer a punch line, the Red Bulls expect to contend for the title yet again. These three things may determine whether or not they'll finally bring home that elusive trophy.
1. Gideon Baah replaces Matt Miazga
Baah is the Red Bulls' lone offseason signing and he was only brought in to replace Miazga, who was sold to Chelsea. He will have to be the linchpin of the New York defense because we saw last year how much Marsch's crew struggled without Miazga. The back line became a sieve when their starlet was out, and Baah will have to be the same difference-maker that Miazga was. The Red Bulls are also replacing their other first choice centerback, Damien Perrinelle -- so Baah better be every bit as good as they believe he'll be.
2. Anatole Abang's time to shine
Anatole Abang
Abang joined the Red Bulls after a successful trial last spring and immediately impressed the New York brass. They signed the Cameroonian immediately and he contributed six goals in his freshman campaign. Now, the 19-year-old could be set for a breakout season and team with Bradley Wright-Phillips to make up one of the league's best one-two punches. If things go the Red Bulls' way, Abang will be their -- and maybe even MLS' -- next star.
3. Can the kids make an impact?
Connor Lade
The Red Bulls signed a grand total of one senior team player this offseason. They weren't interested in making huge changes to their first team, instead focusing on retaining their own, like Mike Grella and Luis Robles, and adding Homegrown players. They signed seven players from their academy, continuing their focus on youth development and capitalizing on one of the most talent-rich regions in the country. They're a talented bunch, led by Tyler Adams, who will have to contribute immediately. Marsch's intense pressing system requires regular rotation and some young legs. That means the kids will be thrown into the fire from the start.
