Nashville SC secured the services of midfielder Dru Yearwood in a trade with the New York Red Bulls, solidifying a key piece to strengthen their midfield. The transaction, announced on Monday, involved a substantial amount of $150,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM), split between $75,000 guaranteed for 2024 and $75,000 conditional for 2025.
Since his arrival in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2020, Yearwood has accumulated three goals and three assists in 86 matches with the Red Bulls. His versatility as a box-to-box progressive midfielder is seen as a valuable addition to Nashville's roster, which is adjusting to the imminent departure of captain Dax McCarty, whose contract expires this winter.
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Nashville General Manager Mike Jacobs praised Yearwood's ability, highlighting his dedication and athleticism. "Dru brings the energy and dynamism needed as a progressive midfielder and should fit almost perfectly into our group," Jacobs stated in an official release.
While Nashville envisions a rise in the Eastern Conference, the New York Red Bulls will have to reorganize their midfield with Yearwood's departure. Frankie Amaya and homegrown talent Daniel Edelman emerge as key pieces, but the hiring of a new coach for the 2024 season adds a layer of uncertainty to the club's future.
The Red Bulls' Head of Sport, Jochen Schneider, expressed gratitude, highlighting Yearwood's positive contribution during his four seasons with the organization. "Dru is an incredible person, and we wish him success in his next opportunity," Schneider declared.
With both teams aiming to build on their recent Audi MLS Cup playoff appearances, Nashville, currently in 7th place in the Eastern Conference, and New York, in 8th place, are gearing up for a challenging 2024 season. Yearwood's arrival solidifies Nashville's plans, while the Red Bulls seek to regroup and find the right direction under new technical leadership.