"One of my strongest attributes is my versatility, Nealis said. It's not too different. The back line, the defending principles, remain the same here. You're just moving one spot over. Maybe you just have to be more vocal, which I'm totally fine with doing. As a center-back, you're in more of a leadership position. You kind of control the guys in front of you and around you. So just from that aspect, I think I'll have to work on that."
"The shift comes out of necessity, considering Red Bull has sustained significant losses this offseason. Not only is Eile headed across the pond and the elder Nealis traded, but the organization parted ways with German veteran Alexander Hack after just one season. The only reinforcement they brought in at the center-back position was Robert Voloder, who previously was a mainstay within Sporting Kansas City's back line but had last season cut short because of a broken collarbone."
Dylan Nealis, a natural right-back for New York Red Bulls, has spent significant portions of preseason as a center-back after Noah Eile finalized a move to Bristol City. The position change follows several offseason departures, including Nealis's brother being traded to D.C. United and the club parting ways with Alexander Hack. The only incoming center-back reinforcement was Robert Voloder, who missed time last season with a broken collarbone. Tim Parker remains the only established center-back option. Head coach Michael Bradley has experimented with other defenders at center-back during preseason matches. Nealis emphasizes versatility and increased vocal leadership in the new role.
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