Kevin Thelwell leaves New York Red Bulls and joins Everton - "Loved every minute"

Kevin Thelwell is no longer the head of sport of the New York Red Bulls. The club confirmed on Friday that the 48-year-old will leave the club and become the new director of football for Everton FC. “On behalf of the organization, we would like to thank Kevin for his contributions and efforts to the club over the last two years," RBNY general manager Marc de Grandpré said in a club statement. "We wish Kevin all the best, both personally and professionally, in his new endeavor."

Thelwell joined RBNY in February 2020 and helped guide the club to two back-to-back MLS Cup Playoff appearances. Thelwell was responsible to discover and sign the likes of Caden Clark and Patryk Klimala. This winter he spent $4.9 million on new signings, most notably Luquinhas (Legia), Lewis Morgan (Inter Miami CF), and Dylan Nealis (Nashville SC). RBNY have the 15th most valuable squad in MLS with an average age of just 22.1—the youngest in the league (overview). 

"I feel I leave the shirt in a much stronger place than when I joined," Kevin Thelwell said in a club statement. The roster has been completely rebuilt; there is a clear sporting vision now in place as part of a strategic five-year plan; and the pipeline of young talent is now stronger than ever. I would like to thank the staff, players, and fans for their support, and I am looking forward to continuing to be a fan of the Red Bulls in the future."