HARRISON, N.J. (Jan. 2, 2014) – The New York Red Bulls announced today that they have parted ways with defender Markus Holgersson, with the parties mutually agreeing to terminate his contract. Holgersson had one year left on his current deal.

“After speaking with Markus following the conclusion of our season and taking into account our salary cap situation, we mutually decided that it would be in everyone’s interest for us to part ways. Markus indicated to us that he is ready to take on the next stage of his career, and we want to thank him for his service to the New York Red Bulls,” Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh said. “Markus, an excellent professional, has been an important part of our club and defense for the past two seasons, helping us win the Supporters’ Shield in 2013, and we are very sad to lose him. We want to wish him the best of luck.”

Holgersson signed with the Red Bulls on Jan. 12, 2012, from Swedish side Helsingborgs. In his first season in MLS, Holgersson was named the Red Bulls' Defender of the Year, leading all New York defenders in regular season appearances (31), starts (31) and goals (3). The 28-year-old featured and started in 32 of New York’s 34 regular season games in their Supporters’ Shield-winning campaign in 2013 while recording one assist. Holgersson appeared in all four of the club's postseason matches over his two MLS seasons.

Prior to coming to New York, Holgersson played for Helsingborgs for three seasons (2009-2011) and helped his club become the first side to win the treble in 2011, winning the Allsvenskan (Swedish First Division title) as well as the Svenska Cupen (Swedish Cup) and the SuperCup.