Sekagya’s coaching journey reaches new heights with MLS promotion

Hard work, patience, loyalty, and a commitment to continuous learning have defined the remarkable journey of former Uganda Cranes captain and legend Ibrahim Sekagya, culminating in his recent promotion to First Team Assistant Coach at Major League Soccer (MLS) side New York Red Bulls.

On Tuesday, Sekagya was elevated from his role as Head Coach of New York Red Bulls II to the senior team, replacing Bosnia and Herzegovina tactician Vedad Ibišević, who departed the club a day earlier.

Sekagya’s association with the New York Red Bulls began in 2013 when he joined the senior team as a player from Red Bull Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga.

During his two-year stint, the commanding defender made 41 appearances and played a key role in helping the team secure the 2013 Supporters’ Shield.

After retiring in 2015, Sekagya transitioned into coaching, remaining with the club as part of its technical staff. He served as Assistant Coach for New York Red Bulls II for eight years before being promoted to Head Coach in 2023. In just two seasons, he led the team to notable achievements, including a historic fourth-place finish and a run to the MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference semifinals.

Under his leadership, New York Red Bulls II made a record-breaking start to the current MLS NEXT Pro season, amassing 27 points from 12 matches (eight wins, two draws, and two losses) and scoring a league-best 27 goals.

Announcing his promotion, Jochen Schneider, Head of Sport at New York Red Bulls, praised Sekagya’s contributions and developmental impact:

“We are pleased to add Ibra Sekagya to our first team coaching staff on a full-time basis. He has led the development of many great players at New York Red Bulls II and has guided the team to a fantastic start to the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season. He has earned this opportunity, and we are grateful to have him.”

Sekagya has also been instrumental in creating opportunities for Ugandan talent. During his tenure with Red Bulls II, he signed three Ugandan players: midfielders Steven Sserwadda and Ibrahim Kasule, and forward Frank Ssebufu. While Ssebufu eventually left the club, Sserwadda and Kasule continue to shine. Notably, Kasule recently became New York Red Bulls II’s all-time leading scorer with 27 goals, surpassing the previous record of 25 set by Brandon Allen.

Sekagya’s illustrious career spans multiple continents. He began in Uganda with State House and KCCA before moving to Argentina and later Austria, where he played for Red Bull Salzburg. He competed in prestigious tournaments such as the UEFA Champions League and Europa League, facing some of Europe’s elite clubs and players.