The New York Red Bulls recently signed Warren N.J. native Daniel Edelman to a new four-year MLS contract that runs through 2027 with an option for 2028.
The 20-year old rising star joined SportsJam with Doug Doyle to talk about his third season with the club and his New Jersey roots.
Edelman is excited about the new deal that allows him to play before his family, friends and fans at Red Bull Arena in Harrison.
"It's super special to be able to re-sign with this club. I grew up watching the Red Bulls. I don't take any of these moments, training session or game for granted because i've got to cherish them while they are still here."
Edelman comes from great athletic stock. His dad Ari played collegiate soccer at Loyola Marland and his mom Patty is the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I women's basketball in Maryland.
"There was always a ball around the house, whether it be a soccer ball or basketball. Mom and dad were athletes. I think from a young age they taught me try and play multiple sports and really follow what I love. I think it's all about experimenting. I didn't pursue basketball but some of those skills translate over to soccer. I came from two great parents who were so well-rounded and so appreciative of their careers. They were able to guide me to where I am today."
One of Edelman's goals for the new season is to become more of an offensive threat. He scored his first professional goal on August 27, 2022 in a 3–1 victory against Inter Miami.
"It still goes down as one of the best moments of my life. I think I'll never forget being able to put the ball in the back of the net and then go and look up at my family and friends and see the whole stadium cheering. Another step for me this year is to continue to be leader despite being 20 years old and just coach the guys around me and be a voice in the middle of the field."
Edelman tallied his first career professional assist in New York’s 4-0 win over Atlanta United FC on June 24 and he also scored his lone goal of the season in this match, which was the game-winning goal.
NY Red Bulls management says Daniel exemplifies all the club's core values and has a great winning mentality.
The midfielder's attitude and skills were noticed early on in his career. He was part of the youth system at the Players Development Academy (PDA) from 2015 to 2020. He also played prep soccer at Watching Hill Regional High School. In 2020, Edelman joined the New York Red Bulls youth academy.
"I saw a possible pathway that I could follow and you just have to trust the process."
You will be able to catch #75 Daniel Edelman and the New York Red Bulls in action against FC Dallas at Red Bull Arena on March 9.
