In part three of four of MLS team preview articles, we analyze the New York Red Bulls, Orlando City, Philadelphia Union, Portland Timbers and Real Salt Lake.
The Red Bulls defied the doubters with a dream season in 2015, winning the Supporters’ Shield and solidifying their place among the best. Needless to say, there wasn’t much improvement necessary for NYRB.
But when star center-back Matt Miazga–who at just 20-years old broke onto the scene with his hometown club–departed for Chelsea in late January, a huge hole opened up in central defense.
The other starting defender, Damien Perrinelle, injured his leg during the playoffs and was ruled out for months, meaning it will be Ronald Zubar starting in his place until he comes back.