There is growing anticipation within Red Bull New York that Adri Mehmeti, a promising 16-year-old American central midfielder, might secure a substantial role with the first team following Daniel Edelman’s trade.
New York recently finalized a deal sending Edelman, a 22-year-old holding midfielder, to St. Louis City for $700,000 in general allocation money. This move is part of Red Bull’s roster overhaul led by the new head of sport, Julian de Guzman, and head coach, Michael Bradley, who are implementing a more attacking 4-3-3 formation.
This strategic shift made Edelman, who had risen quickly within the US youth system before two strong seasons with Red Bull, surplus to requirements. Veteran Swedish midfielder Gustav Berggren, acquired in last year’s summer transfer window, will play a part in the three-man central midfield setup.
Mehmeti presents an interesting option for New York’s revamped midfield. After making his first-team debut in August during the Leagues Cup, the Staten Island native led Red Bull’s second team to an MLS NEXT Pro championship in early November. A week later, he impressed manager Ole Werner while training with Red Bull Leipzig, a top German Bundesliga club.
Despite his youth, Mehmeti is a forward-thinking player whose vision and technical ability exceed his age. He maintains composure in midfield, can execute dangerous passes breaking defensive lines, and possesses a strong work ethic for defensive responsibilities.
This combination of composure, playmaking ability, and potential could excel in Bradley’s new system, altering the club’s lineup dynamics from previous seasons.
Emil Forsberg, the Swedish international and Red Bull captain, might be positioned on the wing of New York’s forward trio, alongside Bayern Munich alumnus Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and newly acquired 22-year-old US international winger Cade Cowell.
A clearer understanding of the team’s configuration will develop next week as preseason scrimmages commence.
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