Gerhard Struber is out as head coach of the New York Red Bulls, after the two agreed to “mutually” part ways.
Struber exits after three seasons in charge, where he managed to guide the team to playoffs in 2021, 2022 and reach the 2022 US Open Cup semifinals. Assistant Coach Bernd Eibler will also leave the club.
“We thank Gerhard and Bernd for their work and commitment to our club and wish them well in their next endeavors,” Head of Sport Jochen Schneider said.
“I want to especially thank Gerhard for his dedication to this club and for the personal sacrifices that he made, especially being away from his family. He led our players through a difficult time, keeping everyone in good spirits while continuing our playoff streak. After many discussions with Gerhard over the past few weeks, we mutually came to the agreement that a change now would be beneficial for both parties."
“I enjoyed my time at the New York Red Bulls. It was also clear for me that I wanted to return to Europe at the end of this season, at the latest. It was extremely difficult for me to live here, completely without my family,” responded Struber in a statement.
“I informed the club early enough about my wishes and we came to an agreement to part ways. I wish the organization and the players the best of luck moving forward. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the players, staff and know my relationships I’ve built will continue. It was an honor to lead this club. I know they are all going to continue to accomplish great things in their careers.”
The Red Bulls saw a difficult start to the 2023 MLS campaign, both on and off the field. The team currently sits in last place of the Eastern Conference table with just nine points in 11 games and a 1W-4L-6D record.
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But the ongoing situations off the field became more concerning.
On April 8, RBNY forward Dante Vanzeir used racist language when addressing a San Jose Earthquake player mid-game. Despite being called out for the situation by players from both teams, Struber insisted Vanzeir not be subbed off and continue the game as normal, a decision that was later heavily criticized.
Major League Soccer launched an internal investigation into the matter, and consequently suspended the forward for six games. The team, Vanzeir and Struber all put out individual statements to address the matter, but all failed to satisfy supporters for their “superficial” feel.
Now, in a bid to start fresh, Troy Lesesne has been appointed head coach through the end of the season.
“Troy is an impressive, knowledgeable coach, who has worked incredibly well with our players for the last year and half,” Schneider said. “We are fortunate to have him lead our team forward.”
Lesesne previously served as Head Coach and Technical Director of the United Soccer League Championship club New Mexico United before joining the Red Bulls in 2022.
This article was originally published on 90min as Gerhard Struber departs as New York Red Bulls head coach .