Ugandan Legend Ibrahim Sekagya Promoted to New York Red Bulls First Team Assistant Coach

The New York Red Bulls today officially announced the promotion of Ibrahim Sekagya to the role of full-time first assistant coach. The former Uganda Cranes captain, who has been at the helm of New York Red Bulls II since February 2023, will assume his new responsibilities after his final game in charge of NYRB II on Saturday, June 15.

Sekagya’s elevation to the senior coaching staff marks a significant step in his coaching career and reflects his impressive track record within the Red Bulls organisation.

“We are pleased to add Ibra [Sekagya] to our first team coaching staff on a full-time basis,” stated Head of Sport Jochen Schneider. “He has led the development of many great players at NYRB II and has led the team to a great start to the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season. He has earned this opportunity, and we are grateful to have him as a part of this organisation.”

Sekagya’s tenure as Head Coach of NYRB II, which began on February 6, 2023, has been notably successful. In his first season, he guided the team to the MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference semifinals, finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference with a strong record of 14 wins, 8 losses, and 6 draws.

This current campaign has seen NYRB II achieve its best start in franchise history under Sekagya’s leadership. Through 12 games, the team boasts an impressive 8-2-2 record, accumulating 27 points. Currently, NYRB II sits atop the Eastern Conference of MLS NEXT Pro, leading the league with a remarkable 27 goals scored. The team is notably home to Ugandan internationals Steven Sserwadda and Ibrahim Kasule.

Sekagya’s impact extends beyond team results, with significant credit given to his ability to develop talent. He is lauded for the progression of players like Omar Valencia, who currently leads the first team in assists with five, and Mohammed Sofo, who has contributed seven goals across all competitions this season. His involvement with NYRB II dates back to the team’s inaugural season in 2015, when he served as an assistant coach.

Before transitioning to coaching, Sekagya enjoyed a distinguished playing career, including two seasons with the New York Red Bulls in 2013 and 2014. During his time as a player, he made 41 appearances across all competitions and was a key member of the 2013 Supporters’ Shield-winning team. Before his move to MLS, Sekagya spent six highly successful seasons with Red Bull Salzburg from 2007 to 2013, making 225 appearances for the Austrian club.

Sekagya’s promotion is a testament to his dedication, coaching acumen, and proven ability to foster talent within the Red Bulls system, setting the stage for a promising new chapter in his already illustrious career.