Kevin Thelwell leaves Wolves: Lowdown on the New York Red Bulls

And here is the inside track on the MLS franchise.

The Red Bull umbrella

New York are one of four clubs owned by energy drink giants Red Bull.

German club Leipzig and Austrian side Salzburg are part of their umbrella too, while Red Bull Brasil – based in Sao Paulo – were founded in 2007.

Thelwell’s soon-to-be employers were originally founded 26 years ago, and began competing as the New York/New Jersey MetroStars in 1996.

Then, 10 years later, they became the Red Bulls and have reached the MLS Cup final once – being beaten by Columbus Crew in 2008.

Former stars

While not having any major players in their squad these days, the Red Bulls have had some big stars in their ranks over the years.

Thierry Henry is the most notable – joining them in 2010 after his illustrious spells with Arsenal and Barcelona.

He scored a total of 51 goals in 122 games for the club, and he is their all-time assists leader with 37.

Ex-Wolves fans’ favourite Ronald Zubar and former Villa striker Juan Pablo Angel have played there too.

Bradley Wright-Phillips – son of Ian, brother of Shaun – is considered a Red Bulls club legend as well, after a whopping 108 goals in 195 matches.

Trophy history

The MLS Cup is considered the main prize, with the top seven teams from the Eastern and Western Conferences entering the play-offs to determine the winner.

Then, the Supporters’ Shield goes to the team with the best regular season record.

And while the Cup has evaded them, the Red Bulls have won the Shield three times – in 2013, 2015 and 2018.

Will they finally clinch the Cup with Thelwell serving as head of sport?