Justin Che
NYR
Center Back
Ball-Playing Center Back
Nov 18, 2003 (22)
Right
6'1"
174 lb
Suffers knee issue
Che is not an option for the time being because of a knee problem he picked up during the week before his team's fixture versus Inter Miami, the league announced Friday.
Analysis: Che has been a steady presence in the Red Bulls' back line lately, averaging 4.6 clearances per game this year. A knee designation is more worrying for a player who lost months to knee trouble in 2023 while at Hoffenheim. Tim Parker has been the fallback when Che was unavailable and should be next in line to feature in the middle of the defense.
Cleared to play
Che (ankle) is available for New York Red Bulls' MLS clash against San Diego FC on Saturday after being omitted from the league's latest injury report.
Analysis: Che has recovered from the ankle injury that sidelined him for New York's last two matches, having made steady progress in his rehabilitation during the international break. The defender was previously considered a game-time decision for the postponed matchup against St. Louis City SC, but the additional recovery time has allowed him to return to contention. Che has started 15 of his 17 MLS appearances this season, making him a strong candidate to reclaim his place in the starting XI against San Diego.
Progressing in recovery
Che (ankle) is progressing well in his recovery, according to manager Michael Bradley. "[Justin is] moving along in a good way," Bradley said in a recent press conference Sep. 24. "He's doing everything that he can. We're pushing him along in a good way and, like I said, we'll take advantage of every minute, every hour between now and the time the game kicks off."
Analysis: Che was expected to be a game-time call for the Sept. 26 match against St. Louis City SC, but the game was postponed due to weather-related issues. With the match now scheduled for Wednesday, Che will once again be a game-time call, though the coaching staff could also give him more time to recover and wait until the Oct. 10 match against San Diego FC to be fully fit. Che has missed the Red Bulls' last two games due to the injury. He has started in all but two of his 17 league appearances this season.
Hobbling off in stoppage time
Che (undisclosed) was hobbling off in the 95th minute of Wednesday's2-0 loss against LAFC, according to South Ward Central.
Analysis: Che has made 1,361 minutes across the 2026 MLS season without a goal or assist, picking up five yellow cards while establishing himself as a steady contributor in defense. His precautionary withdrawal comes at the end of a strong individual performance, and further clarity on his status should emerge as New York Red Bulls continues its season.
Records seven clearances in win
Che registered two tackles (two won), seven clearances and one interception in Saturday's 2-1 win over Sporting Kansas City.
Analysis: Che was one of the standout performers at the back for NYRB, and his seven clearances were his best output in that category since he made eight clearances in the season opener versus Orlando on Feb. 22. Che is averaging 4.7 clearances per game in his six starts this season.
Fit again
Che (hamstring) is on the bench for Saturday's match against Chicago.
Analysis: Che is finally back in the team sheet after weeks of coming close following a hamstring injury, and has been given a spot on the bench. He was an option for the first three games of the season and started in all three, so he will be eying a return to the starting XI after a few minutes to test his fitness.
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