Sousa fails to reach deal to coach NY Red Bulls

Published Jan. 24, 2013 8:47 p.m. ET

foxsports

Former Portugal playmaker Paulo Sousa won't be taking charge of the New York Red Bulls.

The 42-year-old Sousa had been close to filling the head coach's position after holding talks with the team.

But Sousa told The Associated Press on Thursday ''we didn't reach a final agreement. This sometimes happens in football and we need to turn a page and focus on the future.''

The Red Bulls have been searching for a head coach since deciding in November not to renew Hans Backe's contract after three seasons.

Sousa, who has managed British clubs Queens Park Rangers, Swansea and Leicester, left his job at Hungarian club Videoton this month, citing family reasons after winning three trophies within two years.