Major Red Bulls shakeup as sporting director Jochen Schneider, head coach Sandro Schwarz are out

The New York Red Bulls have overhauled their front office in a dramatic move following their first playoff miss in 16 years, announcing Monday that head of sport Jochen Schneider and head coach Sandro Schwarz will not return in 2026.

Schneider, who has been with the club since 2022, has decided to return home to Europe to be with his family. He will be succeeded by Julian de Guzman, who joined the team in 2024 as sporting director.

“It has been an incredible privilege and honor to lead this extraordinary organization and work alongside such talented individuals,” Schneider said. “Over the past few years, I’ve poured my heart into this club, and I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together. Mentoring Julian has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time here, and I have no doubt that he is the perfect person to take the helm and lead the Red Bulls into their next chapter. While I will deeply miss this club, my family must come first, and I need to be with them. That said, I will always remain close to Julian and the Red Bulls, and I look forward to seeing the team’s continued success.

“We are deeply grateful for all that Jochen has brought to our organization during his time here,” team president Marc de Grandpre added. “Jochen’s expertise and leadership were instrumental in assembling a team that has competed at the highest level. While we are saddened to see him depart, he will always be part of the family. We fully respect his decision and wish him and his family all the best in the days and months ahead.”

Unlike Schneider, Schwarz was terminated from his position after just two seasons. He led New York to a miracle run to an Eastern Conference title and an appearance in the 2024 MLS Cup Final following coaching stints in the Bundesliga and Russia. Despite a similar points output in 2025, key injuries and inconsistent play withheld the Red Bulls from extending their then-North American record streak for most active successive postseason appearances.

Schwarz’s assistant coach, Volkan Bulut, will not return in 2026, either.

The search for a new head coach will begin immediately.

For more on the Red Bulls, visit AMNY.com