German Midfielder Returns After Spending 2018 On Loan With RBNY

HARRISON, N.J. (January 24, 2019) – The New York Red Bulls have signed German midfielder Marc Rzatkowski to an MLS contract using Targeted Allocation Money, the club announced today. Rzatkowski signs on a free transfer after spending 2018 with New York on loan from Red Bull Salzburg.

“We are pleased to complete this signing and bring Marc back to New York,” said Red Bulls Sporting Director Denis Hamlett. “Marc played an important role for us last year and we expect those contributions to continue in 2019.”

Rzatkowski, 28, played different roles across the Red Bulls midfield throughout the 2018 season. The Bochum, Germany, native, started 16 of the 24 matches he appeared in during league play and tallied two goals and seven assists in 1,497 minutes. The midfielder had his best offensive game on July 14 when he tallied back-to-back goals in a seven-minute span (72’, 79’) to lift the Red Bulls past Sporting Kansas City, 3-2, at Red Bull Arena.

“Marc showed his value and quality throughout last year, and we’re happy to have him back on a permanent basis,” said Red Bulls Head Coach Chris Armas. “Marc adds experience, intelligence, and a competitive edge that is needed in our squad. He also has integrated so well with everyone and fits in perfectly with our culture and the way we work."

Across all competitions, Rzatkowski finished tied for seventh on the team in goals (3) and fourth in assists (8) in 2,562 minutes played over 32 matches. He also recorded one game-winning goal and one game-winning assist. In his professional career in both Europe and the United States, Rzatkowski has recorded for 34 goals and 48 assists.

Before joining the Red Bulls in January 2018, Rzatkowski spent two seasons with Red Bull Salzburg and four years with FC St. Pauli. He began his career in the academy of hometown club VfL Bochum before signing his first professional contract in 2009.

Transaction: New York Red Bulls Sign Marc Rzatkowski to an MLS contract using Targeted Allocation Money on January 24, 2019.

Marc Rzatkowski

Position: Midfielder

Height: 5’7

Born: 3/2/90

Birthplace: Bochum, Germany

Hometown: Bochum, Germany

Citizenship: German