photo by Matt Kremkau |
Despite not being protected against the impending MLS Expansion Draft, New York Red Bulls and their fans have little to worry about with regards to embattled striker Patryk Klimala. The Polish forward hasn't produced as much as expected over the last two seasons but will more than likely still wear the team's colors comes 2023.
The main reason why St. Louis SC will more than likely not look to Klimala as an option will likely be his salary. According to the league's union, Klimala makes over $1.1 million in guaranteed compensation. This would make him a designated player for the new franchise or force them to use a fair amount of Targeted Allocation Money in order to bring his salary down. Given his lack of production in front of goal, it would be wise for him to not be in the selection pool.
The second reason is his inability to score goals. In 57 MLS appearances for the club, Klimala has only netted 13 goals and assisted in 10 others. 2022 was especially poor for the forward as his numbers declined from eight goals to five. In essence, Klimala is a high-priced work-in-progress that St. Louis would need to build up. At the age of 24, he is approaching a point where his sell-on value will decline exponentially. Should he not fix his goal-scoring drought, it would be an expensive misstep for the first year team.
More than likely Klimala will remain with New York. There have been rumors of offers from other teams outside of MLS but the money hasn't matched what the Red Bulls were hoping to receive. Instead, he remains an unprotected player that New York is willing to take a chance on while protecting other, more valuable players.
Protected New York Red Bulls Players:
Goalkeepers: Carlos Coronel
Defenders: Sean Nealis, Andres Reyes
Midfielders: Frankie Amaya, Wiki Carmona, Dru Yearwood, Cameron Harper, Cristian Casseres Jr., Luquinhas, Lewis Morgan
Forwards: Tom Barlow, Elias Manoel
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