Full Breakdown
New York Red Bulls Sign Goalkeeper Ethan Horvath from Cardiff City
1/30/2026, 1:35:23 AM
Transfer Overview
The New York Red Bulls have officially completed the transfer of U.S. men's national team goalkeeper Ethan Horvath from Cardiff City. The 30-year-old has signed a one-and-a-half-year contract that extends through June 2027, with options for the 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons. To secure Horvath's services, the Red Bulls compensated Charlotte FC with $150,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) and the highest of their second-round picks in the 2027 MLS SuperDraft for his discovery rights.
Horvath's Career Background
Ethan Horvath, a native of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, began his professional career with Molde FK in Norway, where he made his debut in 2015. He later joined Club Brugge in Belgium, where he won three Jupilier Pro League titles and one Belgian Super Cup. Horvath has also played for Nottingham Forest, Luton Town, and Sheffield Wednesday, accumulating significant experience in European leagues. Notably, he helped Luton Town achieve promotion to the Premier League during the 2022-23 season.
At Cardiff City, Horvath made 36 appearances and recorded eight clean sheets before being loaned to Sheffield Wednesday for the 2025 season, where he made 16 appearances. His performance included a standout moment in the EFL Cup, where he saved two penalties against Leeds United.
Official Statements & Responses
Julian de Guzman, Head of Sport for the Red Bulls, emphasized Horvath's experience and professionalism, stating, “Ethan brings a tremendous amount of experience and professionalism to our group. He has competed at the highest levels, and his leadership will be invaluable for our locker room and our goalkeeping unit as a whole.” Head Coach Michael Bradley echoed this sentiment, highlighting Horvath's ability to perform in crucial moments and his fit within the team's playing style.
Horvath's Perspective
In discussing his move to MLS, Horvath expressed excitement about joining the Red Bulls, noting the club's brand and the opportunity it presents for his family and career. He stated, “After speaking with [head coach Michael Bradley] and Red Bull... it was the best opportunity for me and my family and my footballing career to come here.” Horvath aims to establish his legacy in MLS, saying, “I’m coming here to Red Bull, to New York to write my own chapter in this league.”
Why It Matters
Horvath's signing is significant for the Red Bulls as they prepare for the 2026 MLS season, particularly following the departure of longtime goalkeeper Carlos Coronel. His extensive experience in high-pressure situations, including his contributions to the U.S. national team, positions him as a key player for the Red Bulls as they aim to reclaim their competitive edge in the league.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Ethan has been a proven winner for both club and country, and we are really excited to add him to our roster ahead of the 2026 season,” — Michael Bradley, Head Coach, New York Red Bulls
- “Ethan brings a tremendous amount of experience and professionalism to our group,” — Julian de Guzman, Head of Sport, New York Red Bulls
- “But now that I’m 30, I’m coming here to Red Bull, to New York to write my own chapter in this league, to write my own legacy in MLS, and for me and my family to have some years here in Red Bull New York and to settle down.” — Ethan Horvath, Goalkeeper, New York Red Bulls
Horvath's transition to the Red Bulls marks a new chapter in his career, as he looks to make an impact in Major League Soccer while contributing to the team's aspirations for success in the upcoming seasons.
