Julian Hall signs 4-year New York Red Bulls deal after 12-goal season

Striker Julian Hall has signed a new four-year contract with the New York Red Bulls, extending his stay through the 2029-30 MLS season.

The New York Red Bulls announced on August 27, 2026, that striker Julian Hall has signed a new four-year contract extending through the 2029-30 MLS season. Hall, a Manhattan native, signed a U-22 initiative contract at 18 years and 156 days old, making him the youngest American and the first Red Bull academy product to secure such a deal. During the current campaign, the forward has recorded 12 goals and four assists across all competitions. This follows a historic performance on May 13, where Hall became the youngest player in MLS history to score a hat trick, accounting for every goal in a 3-2 victory over Columbus.

Across his entire tenure with the club, Hall has made 68 appearances, totaling 16 goals and five assists. His professional debut occurred on September 30, 2023, at which time he was the second youngest player in league history, trailing only Freddy Adu. The 2026 MLS All-Star selection also marked him as the second youngest player in team history to earn that honor. Head of sport Julian de Guzman stated that the agreement reflects the value the organization places on Hall’s growth and his established role within the first team.

Record-Breaking Performance and Statistics

Hall’s statistical output this season includes a trio of goals in the 3-2 win against Columbus, a feat that set a new age record for MLS hat tricks. His total career contribution of 21 goal involvements has come during a period where he has drawn interest from European clubs including Atlético Madrid and RB Leipzig. Despite these reports, the striker told ESPN in an exclusive interview that his focus remains on helping his hometown team progress. He credited his success in the box to on-field awareness, noting the necessity of tracking the positions of teammates, defenders, and opponents simultaneously.

International Eligibility and Heritage

The striker holds dual citizenship in the United States and Poland. He has frequently worn the name "Zakrzewski" on his jersey as a tribute to his Polish mother. While he has not yet committed to a specific national team, Hall confirmed he has had no conversations with U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino regarding a call-up to the USMNT. He described his current stance as neutral, acknowledging interest from both nationalities while respecting his father’s American side and his mother’s Polish heritage.

Contract Details and Development

Although specific financial terms of the new agreement were not disclosed, the contract solidifies Hall's presence in the squad for the next four years. He originally signed with the club at age 15. The player emphasized that he enters every season with a mentality focused on doing his best rather than following a strict long-term plan. Julian de Guzman highlighted that Hall has earned the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates through consistent performances and a professional mentality. The U-22 initiative status of the deal marks a significant milestone for the Red Bulls academy system, confirming Hall as the first homegrown player to occupy such a roster slot.