New York Red Bulls foreign hierarchy up to scratch

New York Red Bulls foreign hierarchy seem to have everything under control as they strive to lift the club out of the doldrums.

In past years, the club has insisted on hiring foreign coaches who have no understanding of the game in this country and are unaware of the stringent salary cap rules but under new sporting director Erik Soler and head coach Hans Backe, it seems that the Red Bulls are well-placed going into a new era.

“I was a little bit prepared before I came,” Soler said. “I think I understand the major part of the rules. When not, I’m discussing it with other people who know more about them ... It’s not that difficult to get around but you have to think a little bit differently than what I normally have to do.”

The former Norway international also said he was up to date when considering a transfer budget although it is slightly different to what he has experienced in the past.

“I’m very used to this,” Soler added. “I’ve been doing this for the last 15 years so this is not a problem. Everybody tells me about the salary cap, but Scandinavian clubs are not really rich, either. They have to think about this every day so it’s nothing new.

“It’s different. There are some aspects that you have to look upon a little bit different, but it’s the same for everybody in the league so I’m sure we will do fine with the cap.”

Under Soler and Backe, the New York club has already made some quality signings and with plans to bring in one or two huge names, things at Red Bull Arena look like turning for the better after a disastrous 2009.