TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Extension
The New York Red Bulls and 2018 MLS Defender of the Year Aaron Long have agreed to a new multiyear deal using Targeted Allocation Money, the club announced Monday.
Long, 26, has become one of the league's premier defenders in just two seasons in MLS, spending the prior seasons in USL, where he was named Defender of the Year for New York Red Bulls II in 2016. Last season, he appeared in all 34 matches (31 starts) anchoring the league's top defense while also chipping in with three goals and two assists.
“This club gave me the opportunity I always wanted, and I will be forever grateful for that,” Long said in a statement. “These coaches believed in me and allowed me to blossom into the player I am today. I will do everything I can to get silverware for this club.”
Long's rapid ascension continued this offseason, when Long was given the captain's armband for the US men's national team by new head coach Gregg Berhalter during matches in the January camp.
“Aaron has been a major part of our team’s success over the last two seasons,” head coach Chris Armas said in a statement. “He solidified our back line in 2017 and helped us become the best defense in the league in 2018. Aaron has also grown into a leader within our group and has earned the respect of everyone here. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to continue working with him and watching him grow for our club and country.”
Last season, Long made $73,125 per the MLS Players Association.
