Red Bull New York head coach Michael Bradley was a crucial piece for the United States men’s national team (USMNT) for many years. However, his time with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Toronto FC was a special one to say the least.
In 10 seasons with Canada’s original MLS club, Bradley was a historic figure for “The Reds.” An MLS Cup, Supporters’ Shield and Canadian Championship winner in 2017, Bradley’s time up North was impressive. Playing alongside notable stars like Jozy Altidore and Sebastian Giovinco, Bradley shone immensely, resulting in one of the most successful clubs of the late 2010s.
Bradley’s time at BMO Field was special and it was only a matter of time before he would make his return. Saturday, now as the head man of New York, Bradley makes his return to Canada’s largest city for a duel with Toronto.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Bradley gave his thoughts on facing the club he had a ton of success with.
“I’m excited to come back to Toronto,” Bradley addressed the media Thursday. “A lot of good people there. A lot of good people in and around the club. BMO’s [BMO Field] a great stadium, it’s their home opener and so I think it’ll be a great afternoon and so I’m excited. I’m excited for the game.”
Individually, the former midfielder collected a few honors with his former side from 2014 to 2023. With Toronto, the former captain was a three time MLS All-Star and was one of the best at his position in the league. Funny enough, Bradley and Toronto did capture their first Supporters’ Shield against Red Bull, beating them 4-2 on September 30, 2017.
“I gave everything I had in my time in Toronto. From the second I got there until the second I left and I think what we did and what we were able to accomplish was pretty unique and pretty special and ultimately speaks for itself.”
New York enters Saturday’s match looking to find better results after falling badly to CF Montréal this past Sunday. Red Bull in their only other away match this season were able to take down Orlando City SC, who have since fired their head coach Oscar Pareja. The win started a small winning streak to open the 2026 campaign.
For Toronto, Saturday’s match will be the club’s home opener after being away for their first three matches this season. “The Reds” are notably coming off an impressive win at FC Cincinnati, a match that took place right after Red Bull’s loss to Montréal. Saturday will also commence a nine-match homestand in league play for Toronto.
While the result will be more important, Bradley’s return to Toronto should be one of the great stories throughout MLS this weekend. Still, one would assume Bradley being back in Toronto would make him experience a wide range of emotions.
Fans will have to wait and see come Saturday as Red Bull looks to earn their third win of the young season. Kickoff for Saturday’s match is set for 1 p.m. on Apple TV.
