New York Red Bulls II concluded its five-match July slate on Sunday, July 31, against New Mexico United.
The month saw a player sign with the first team, another make Red Bulls Academy history, and the return of a club legend. As the calendar turns to August, look back at notes and numbers from July:
The Boys Take on Barcelona – Three current Red Bulls II players (O’Vonte Mullings, Curtis Ofori, and Hassan Ndam) all appeared in the New York Red Bulls’ friendly against FC Barcelona on Saturday, July 30, at Red Bull Arena. Mullings and Ndam played the entire second half, while Ofori logged 28 minutes in the second frame.
Hassan’s Return – On July 14, Red Bulls II announced the signing of Hassan Ndam, who made his return to New York after spending two seasons on a first team contract with the club in 2017 and 2018. The 23-year-old appeared in 58 matches, logged 4,947 minutes, and scored three goals during his first stint with the club.
Williams Makes History – Red Bulls Academy midfielder Sam Williams became the first Academy player to log 2,000 career minutes with Red Bulls II on July 15. His 37 appearances over the last two seasons are also a record for a Red Bulls Academy player with Red Bulls II.
Joining the Double-Digit Club – Jeremy Rafanello’s goal on July 15 made him the 15th player in club history to record double-digit goals during their time in New York. It also moved him into sole possession of 15th in club history, passing Andrew Tinari.
First Professional Clean Sheet – Giannis Nikopolidis recorded his first professional clean sheet in the team’s 1-0 victory over Indy Eleven on July 15. He became the ninth goalkeeper in club history to register a clean sheet and is the second player with one this season (AJ Marcucci).
Sserwadda Signs First Team Deal – On July 9, the New York Red Bulls announced the signing of Red Bulls II midfielder Steven Sserwadda. He made two appearances for the first team on a short-term loan in June and appeared in 14 matches for Red Bulls II over the span of two seasons.
