Five matches into Red Bull New York’s 2026 campaign, the glaring issue that fans suspected entering the new season has come true. The backline has been disappointing and bad at some points.
After only allowing one goal in their first two contests, it appeared that the defense would not be awful. However, the last three contests have proven that work and reinforcement is needed.
New York have allowed a combined 10 goals in their last three outings. Three came vs CF Montréal at home, one away at Toronto FC, then the massacre last Saturday night.
Against Charlotte FC, the backline conceded six goals and the final result ended up being a 6-1 Charlotte victory. New York’s loss to Charlotte is now among one of the worst in the history of the club.
With pieces like Dylan Nealis and Justin Che dealing with injuries early in the season, Red Bull understood that they couldn’t wait any longer for help. On Thursday, Red Bull got the help they so desperately needed.
Red Bull officially announced that they have completed the transfer of Colombian defender Julián Bazán on Thursday. The defender arrives from Colombian side Deportivo Pereira and has signed a two-and-a-half year MLS contract with New York.
“We’re very pleased to add Julián to our club,” Head of Sport Julian de Guzman said in a release Thursday. “He’s a player we’ve been tracking closely, and we believe his profile, work rate, and potential fit well with what we’re building. This is an important step in his development, and we’re excited to support his continued growth within our environment.”
The 20-year-old has been with Deportivo Pereira since 2023. This season with Deportivo Pereira, Bazán made seven appearances in the first division of Colombian soccer.
Bazán has also represented his home country at the U-20 National Team level. This includes six appearances during the 2025 U-20 FIFA World Cup.
“Julián has earned this opportunity through his commitment and performances,” head coach Michael Bradley said Thursday. “He’s a player who is eager to learn, competes the right way, and understands the demands of our group. We’re looking forward to integrating him with the first team and helping him continue to progress.”
Pending receipt of his P-1 visa, this is a huge pickup for New York. In what has been a mix of highs and lows so far in Bradley’s first season as the club’s leader, this was a necessary move.
It’s no secret the amount of offensive firepower found throughout this league. Whether it’s at Nashville SC or with Vancouver Whitecaps FC, the scoring output in this league is huge.
Currently, Red Bull have struggled to generate much in the attacking third with only five goals in their first five matches. Four of which belong to recently turned 18-year-old, Julian Hall.
That puts a lot of pressure on the backline to stop opposing attacks. The addition of Bazán should help Red Bull considerably.
Red Bull will return to action April 4 when they face FC Cincinnati at home.
