Joyeux Masanka Bungi has returned to RB Leipzig following the completion of his short-term loan at Red Bull New York.
The versatile 19-year-old defender’s loan expired on June 30. He initially arrived at Red Bull New York on February 26.
South Ward Central spoke with Red Bull New York II head coach Dominik Wohlert, who confirmed that Masanka Bungi has departed Red Bull New York.
“So Bungi is not with us anymore for now,” Wohlert confirmed to South Ward Central on Wednesday afternoon. “I’m not completely in the topic, but yeah, his loan came to an end, so he’s not with us anymore.”
Wohlert handed Masanka Bungi five starts at the MLS NEXT Pro level. The Belgium under-19 youth international contributed one assist across 407 minutes in MLS NEXT Pro play.
Red Bull New York II Head Coach Reflects on Bungi’s Development
After completing his loan at Red Bull New York, Wohlert wished Masanka Bungi the best in his football career.
“I think the experience he made here, away from Europe, basically on the other side of the world, being on his own and connecting with new people, new players, new staff members, I think he will keep that his whole career,” Wohlert stated. “I think that will be just positive for him because now he knows wherever he goes, he will be fine. I think as a young player to learn that about yourself, I think that’s big, and that’s super positive.
“Again, wherever he goes, wherever his way continues, I think he will have it a bit easier because coming from Europe to the U.S. as a young guy, that takes a big change. I think he adapted pretty quick and in a really good way. I’m wishing him just the best.”
Masanka Bungi played a total of two matches for Red Bull New York. His departure could pave the way for the Red Bulls to make a new signing.
Could Red Bull New York Move To Sign Rhys Williams?
At the time of this report, it is unclear whether Red Bull New York will elect to sign former Liverpool defender Rhys Williams. The 25-year-old former Premier League center-back is out of contract.
South Ward Central was the first to report on June 24 that Williams has been training with Red Bull New York for several weeks.
On the same day, South Ward Central witnessed his first public training session with the Red Bull New York first team alongside several beat reporters at RWJBarnabas Health Red Bulls Performance Center in Morris Township, New Jersey.
After training ended, South Ward Central asked Red Bull New York head coach Michael Bradley about Williams, and Bradley admitted that the club plans to have discussions with Williams and his agent.
“Certainly, Rhys’ experience in the game is potentially of big value, so we’ll spend time with him, we’ll discuss with him and his agent what makes the most sense, and we’ll go from there,” Bradley hinted.
Stay tuned to South Ward Central for further developments.
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