Red Bulls dismiss Sandro Schwarz and part ways with Jochen Schneider in a team overhaul

Red Bull to Make Major Changes Following Disappointing 2025 Season

After a lackluster 2025 season, Red Bull is making significant changes. Jochen Schneider, the Head of Sporting, and Sandro Schwarz, the Head Coach, will not return next season. Sporting Director Julian de Guzman is set to take over as Head of Sporting.

Additionally, Assistant Coach Volkan Bulut will also part ways with the club.

While the team announced Schneider’s departure as a personal decision to return to Europe and be closer to family, it follows a period of disappointment for fans. After reaching the MLS Cup finals in 2024, the Red Bulls failed to make the postseason this year, marking the first time in 15 years they’ve missed the finals.

Finishing the year in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, they were 10 points shy of a wild-card playoff spot.

Schwarz, who guided the team for two seasons, had some success, notably leading the club to its first MLS Cup final since 2009. However, this season was plagued by injuries and instability, most notably with midfielder Lewis Morgan sidelined.

The organization announced that they would begin searching for a new head coach immediately.

“We are deeply grateful for all that Jochen has brought to our organization during his time here,” stated Red Bulls President Marc de Grandpre. “Jochen’s leadership has helped us build a competitive team. While we are sad to see him go, we respect his decision and wish him and his family the best.”

Reflecting on Sandro’s contributions, de Grandpre added, “His dedication over the past two years has made a lasting impact, especially as we won our first Eastern Conference Championship.”

Since joining the club in 2022, Schneider has been vital in recruiting key players like Emil Forsberg and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and has been a key player in aggressive spending and recruiting strategies. His exit, therefore, is particularly notable for the club.

Schneider has also played a significant role in scouting emerging talent, something that will be missed moving forward.

In a statement, Schneider expressed his gratitude for his time at the club, saying, “It has been an honor to lead this extraordinary organization and work alongside such talented individuals. My family comes first, but I will always be connected to Red Bull and look forward to seeing the team’s continued success.”