Ibrahim Sekagya is thrilled over his appointment as New York Red Bulls II head coach for their inaugural season in MLS Next Pro.

"I am thrilled to continue my journey with the New York Red Bulls family and lead New York Red Bulls II to success," Sekagya told Vision Sports.

The former Cranes captain was confirmed after New York Red Bulls’ top management decided to put their faith in a youthful coach with fresh ideas.

Sekagya will be the third head coach in Red Bulls II history after spending eight seasons as an Assistant Coach.

The decision-makers at New York Red Bulls were impressed at how Sekagya has developed over the years, his ability to do things differently and his collaborative and communicative style with players in the dressing room.

“Ibrahim (Sekagya) has played a crucial role in the development of Red Bulls II in addition to his success as a player with the main club,” Sporting Director Denis Hamlett said. “We know he will continue his hard work and dedication to improve in every facet of the club.”

Sekagya joined the Red Bulls II coaching staff after retirement in 2015 for its inaugural season in USL that same year. After seven and a half seasons as assistant coach, he was named the interim head coach on July 3, 2022.

Under his guidance, New York Red Bulls has produced some of the best talent in Major League Soccer (MLS).

Besides overseeing 21 players go on to sign MLS contracts with the New York Red Bulls senior team, two players Tyler Adams and Aaron Long, were part of the United States men’s national Team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Sekagya has also been credited with improving players in the first team.

"I cannot wait to get this season started and show all of the work that has been done this winter to put a well-balanced squad on the pitch," he added.

During his eight seasons with the club, Red Bulls II have won 98 matches, qualified for the postseason five times, and won both the 2016 USL Cup and Regular Season titles.