New York Red Bulls have a long history of promoting players from within and head coach Sandro Schwarz is leaning into that by relying on players that have been cultivated through the academy system. Two players in particular that have seen this come to fruition are Wiki Carmona and Peter Stroud. Both players were had seemingly bit parts to play in 2023 and before that we relegated exclusively to New York Red Bulls II. However, the situation has changed and Schwarz is keep on pushing the talent that Red Bull has spent quite some time cultivating and receiving his rewards for it.
“He has everything,” said Schwarz about Carmona in training. “He is physically good, he is technically good and finds good spaces. He’s also intelligent in ball position behaviors. But what he must improve is to play very clean. Especially in build-up situations and to find the right moment.”
Carmona has already made three starts this season, half of what he made in 2023. He also scored a goal in the Red Bulls’ 4-0 win over Inter Miami last month, solidifying his position in the club to the new head coach. In the past Carmona has been in and out of favor but under Schwarz it appears that he will get the best chance to prove he is an MLS starter.
Another player who falls into that category is Peter Stroud. The young defensive midfielder has been called upon to solidify the team defensively but not in the usual positions. While injuries plagued the early games of 2024, he found himself on the wing but quickly proved himself to be a useful player in all parts of the field. This season he’s started in all seven games and is two away from tying last year’s mark with nine.
“The energy that he’s brought every single day and the competency he gives to the players have made a huge difference,” said Stroud about the new head coach’s methods. “I think the guys are growing. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old. I still think every single player is growing and you can see the growth under the new head coach and the style of play we’re playing right now.”
New York will put that style to the test this weekend when they welcome Chicago Fire to Red Bull Arena. Currently the team has taken max points from home this year and look to continue that against a fellow original 96 club on Saturday night.
photo by Matt Kremkau