Red Bulls Split with Holgersson

Want to know how tough the Red Bulls' salary cap situation is?

Well, they just parted ways with Markus Holgersson to free up some cash.

Holgersson, a fixture on the Red Bulls' back line since 2011 2012, was pulling in $199,500 and while he wasn't as good as his centerback partner Jamison Olave, was still pretty solid. Better, anyway, than his likely replacement, Ibrahim Sekagya, who was paid $129,999 base and was less-than-exciting in his appearances.

Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh on the move...

"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."

While Holgersson certainly had his detractors, but he made all the necessary changes to fit into Mike Petke's Red Bulls. Plus, it's nice to have a guy on the field who thinks like the fans.

Anyway, how with Holgersson gone, Roxburgh, Petke and the rest of the Red Bulls' brain trust should have enough money to go out and bring in a legitimate contributor.