Red Bull New York coach Michael Bradley explains how Jurgen Klopp targeted him early
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Michael Bradley: Red Bull New York Coach on How Jürgen Klopp Targeted Him Early
Former USMNT star and longtime midfielder Michael Bradley has launched his coaching career as head coach of New York Red Bulls II in MLS Next Pro, crediting the Red Bull system's global structure for his rapid rise. After retiring, Bradley immersed himself in the organization's famed methodology, observing first-team training under Sandro Schwarz while handling media duties.[1]
On June 12, 2025, Red Bulls II announced Bradley as their inaugural head coach in professional soccer—a role tailored for a "student of the game" like him, known for on-pitch leadership. He praises Red Bull's track record in developing young players and coaches, calling it the "biggest opportunity" in an organization with aligned principles across clubs worldwide.[1]
Bradley counts Jürgen Klopp, Red Bull's head of global soccer since January 2025, among his inspirations alongside his father Bob Bradley, Manfred Schellscheidt, Hansi Flick, and Luis Enrique. Their vetting process began in November 2024 with technical director Mario Gomez, accelerating post-Klopp's arrival. Bradley met Klopp, Gomez, Zsolt Low, and Peter Krawietz during Klopp's first New Jersey visit last winter. He then trained in Europe, visiting Red Bull Salzburg's reserves (FC Liefering) and Munich headquarters.[2]
Executives like sporting director Jochen Schneider and predecessor De Guzman were impressed by Bradley's hunger and preparedness: "He's young, he's hungry, he's fresh... this is the right person."[2] Bradley describes working with Klopp as "surreal," highlighting personal impact from the ex-Liverpool manager at the top of Red Bull's chart.[2][3] This pipeline, influenced by Klopp and Jesse Marsch, positions Bradley perfectly to grow into elite coaching.[1]
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