Chivas Confirm Cade Cowell’s Departure as He Returns to MLS with New York Red Bulls

Chivas have officially confirmed another major attacking departure ahead of the Clausura 2026, as Cade Cowell leaves Liga MX to return to Major League Soccer. The Guadalajara club announced that the American winger will join New York Red Bulls, marking a new chapter in a career that began in MLS before his move to Mexico.

Cowell’s exit comes as part of a broader restructuring of Chivas’ frontline. Following the confirmed departure of Javier “Chicharito” Hernández and the expected exit of Alan Pulido, the club continues to reshape its offensive core with an eye toward the next competitive cycle. The move sends Cowell back to familiar territory, where his pace, athleticism, and direct style first made him one of the most intriguing young attackers in the league.

The transfer involves both New York Red Bulls and San Jose Earthquakes, Cowell’s formative club in MLS. Under league regulations regarding homegrown players, New York Red Bulls paid $50,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) to San Jose to complete the deal. The transaction underscores the unique roster mechanisms of MLS and highlights the value Cowell still holds within the league ecosystem.

New York Red Bulls sporting director Julian de Guzman welcomed the signing, emphasizing Cowell’s physical tools and attacking upside. He described the winger as a fast, skillful forward expected to play an important role in the team’s attacking structure next season. For the Red Bulls, the move aligns with their long-standing philosophy of intensity, vertical play, and player development.

Before joining Chivas, Cowell built his reputation with San Jose Earthquakes, where he logged 104 appearances, scoring 10 goals and delivering 15 assists. He also set multiple club records as the youngest player to debut, start, and score in MLS, achievements that cemented his status as one of the league’s most promising young talents at the time.

With this transfer, Chivas continue to recalibrate their squad after a challenging period, while Cowell looks to relaunch his career in a league he knows well. His return to MLS offers a fresh opportunity to regain momentum, consistency, and visibility as he enters the next phase of his professional journey.