Red Bull New York have acquired another defender, this time in RB Leipzig youth player Joyeux Masanka Bungi on loan for the first portion of the season. The Belgian international is only 19 years-old and will add depth to a position that fans felt needed restocking.
“He’s a talented young player with strong technical quality,” said Head of Sport Julian de Guzman. “We believe this will be an important step in his development while adding to our group.”
Red Bull has seen many departures in the defense. Sean Nealis, Noah Eile, Alexander Hack, Kyle Duncan and Raheem Edwards have departed the club. Robert Voloder, Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Justin Che and now Bungi have filled in those roles.
The young player will be joining a reformed group under head coach Michael Bradley, who won his first game in charge last week against Orlando City, 2-1. The excitement of having minutes with the first team, with the added potential of playing with the reigning MLS Next Pro Champion Red Bull II should see Bungi having more than enough time on the field before his loan ends in June.
“Joyeux is a talented player with a strong mentality,” said Bradley on the signing. “We are looking forward to working with him.”
Next is the home opener for Red Bull as they take on the New England Revolution, this Saturday afternoon.
photo from Red Bull New York