The New York Red Bulls find themselves in tumultuous waters following a week of disappointing developments that culminated in the end of their historic playoff streak. The team, which had qualified for the MLS playoffs for 15 consecutive seasons, was officially eliminated from postseason contention after the Chicago Fire's 5-3 victory over Inter Miami. This defeat not only marked the end of their streak but rendered their final two matches of the regular season devoid of significance.
In recent matches, the Red Bulls showcased glimpses of potential, notably a 2-1 win over Toronto FC that raised hopes for a late-season surge. However, the subsequent Hudson River Derby against rivals New York City FC ended in heartbreak, with the Red Bulls suffering a 3-2 defeat. This loss not only solidified NYCFC's dominance in the rivalry but also left fans frustrated, with some targeting player Raheem Edwards with verbal abuse following the game.
Amid these challenges, interim head coach Marco Donadel is looking to the future. The team's focus now shifts to rebuilding and the potential for a new direction, especially with Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager now involved with the Red Bull organization, praising the quality of MLS during his recent visit. Klopp’s remarks hint at a belief that the league—and by extension, the Red Bulls—can grow stronger in the coming years.
As the Red Bulls prepare to face CF Montréal in their penultimate home game, the stakes are low, but the need for a strong showing remains. With the franchise now tasked with regrouping after a disappointing season, the upcoming matches will serve as a litmus test for the team's resilience and future direction.