MLS Multiplex
Fansided

Dante Vanzeir: Injury Impacting New York Red Bulls’ Soccer Season

By Arthur Fernandes

HARRISON, NJ - MARCH 04: Dante Vanzeir #13 of New York Red Bulls claps to fans after the Major League Soccer match against Nashville SC at Red Bull Arena on March 4, 2023 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images)
HARRISON, NJ - MARCH 04: Dante Vanzeir #13 of New York Red Bulls claps to fans after the Major League Soccer match against Nashville SC at Red Bull Arena on March 4, 2023 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

The New York Red Bulls face a considerable challenge as the 2023 Major League Soccer (MLS) season nears its conclusion. The injury to forward Dante Vanzeir, announced last Friday, has shaken the team and raises crucial questions about their prospects in the remainder of the competition.

Dante Vanzeir, one of RBNY’s standout players, suffered a lower back injury during a 1-1 draw against Austin FC. The news that he will be sidelined until the end of the season is a significant blow to the team, as the Belgian striker contributed with two goals and an assist in 19 MLS matches.

This injury also has implications beyond the MLS, as Vanzeir scored crucial goals in RBNY’s campaign in the 2023 League’s Cup and in the US Open Cup match against FC Cincinnati. His absence may affect the team’s performance in additional competitions.

HARRISON, NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES – 2023/07/30: Dante Vanzeir (13) of New York Red Bulls controls the ball during Leagues Cup 2023 match against Atletico San Luis at Red Bull Arena in Harrison. The New York Red Bulls won 2 – 1 and progressed to the round of 32. There were 3 ruled-out goals – two from Red Bulls (one offside and another foul committed before the shot) and one from Atletico (offside). Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel saved a penalty kick when the game was on balance at 1 each. (Photo by Lev Radin/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images)
HARRISON, NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES – 2023/07/30: Dante Vanzeir (13) of New York Red Bulls controls the ball during Leagues Cup 2023 match against Atletico San Luis at Red Bull Arena in Harrison. The New York Red Bulls won 2 – 1 and progressed to the round of 32. There were 3 ruled-out goals – two from Red Bulls (one offside and another foul committed before the shot) and one from Atletico (offside). Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel saved a penalty kick when the game was on balance at 1 each. (Photo by Lev Radin/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images) /

The New York Red Bulls, currently in 14th place in the Eastern Conference table, face a daunting task in securing a spot in the 2023 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. A late-season comeback is the only hope for the team, which will face DC United at Audi Field in a pivotal matchup on Saturday.

Dante Vanzeir’s absence leaves a noticeable void in the team’s attack. His ability to score goals and create opportunities was instrumental in RBNY’s success. Now, the responsibility falls on other players to fill the void left by him.

Furthermore, Vanzeir’s injury also raises questions about the depth of the New York Red Bulls’ squad. In a competitive league like MLS, having quality players as substitutes is essential, and the team may feel the lack of reliable options on the bench.

In this challenging moment, the resilience of the New York Red Bulls will be put to the test. The coach and the team will have to adjust their strategy and find a way to overcome adversity. Fans eagerly await RBNY’s ability to bounce back and continue their quest for a playoff berth.

Dante Vanzeir’s injury is disheartening news for New York Red Bulls fans, but soccer is full of surprising twists. RBNY now faces a formidable challenge, and the team’s response in the upcoming matches will determine the fate of their 2023 MLS season.

Home/New York Red Bulls