The turnover at Red Bull New York continues, this time with Canadian defender Raheem Edwards departing the club as part of a waive and contract buyout. Edwards was part of the 2025 failed season which saw the club fall out of the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade.
In totality Edwards made 24 appearances for the club in the left back position. It was a fight all season between he and Omar Valencia, with the young upstart showing promise early in the campaign. Expectations are that Valencia will once again feature for the club in 2026.
While focus has been placed on the depth of Red Bull defense, Edwards departure still leaves the club with Tim Parker, Justin Che, Robert Voloder as center back options. Valencia, Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, and Dylan Nealis can transition between the positions as well, giving a bit more options than many are expecting.
The move also clears much needed roster space as the club was nearly filled at the 30-man roster position. While no rumors have been solidified, expectation is that Red Bull will either pull from their successful reserve team or go back into the market. The MLS transfer window will remain open until late March, giving the club more time to work on filling out the edges of the roster.
photo by Matt Kremkau