German midfielder and international superstar Bastian Schweinsteiger has gotten his long wanted and needed escape from Manchester United. The man with the most fun name to say in all of sports is now off to the Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer.
The news was broken yesterday, and here’s a link to more details on that. Schweinsteiger has won more championships than any player to have ever signed to play in Major League Soccer, and he’s just the second World Cup champion to ever sign on in the American top flight. The former Germany Captain could join the team as early as next week.
We looked at how Schweinsteiger fits in with the Fire, what this deal accomplishes, and what it doesn’t accomplish over at this link, as this deal is one that’s been circulating in the media since November.
Fire owner and chairman Andrew Hauptman:
“Bastian Schweinsteiger is one of our sport’s greatest champions,” said . “We are excited for soccer fans everywhere to have the opportunity to watch the most decorated player in the league during the Fire’s 20th season.”
Schweinsteiger:
“Throughout my career, I’ve always sought opportunities where I hoped to make a positive impact and to help make something great. My move to Chicago Fire is no different. Through my conversations with Nelson and Pauno, I’m convinced by the club’s vision and philosophy and I want to help them with this project.”
Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez:
“This is a historic moment for our club. We have added one of the greatest champions in all of sports. Bastian’s talents, attitude, and character will be a perfect complement to our squad as we continue building a championship program.”
Schweinsteiger signs on as a Designated Player for a one year deal. The club states that Schweinsteiger will officially be added to the Fire’s roster and available for selection upon passing a team physical, and pending receipt of his ITC and P1 Visa.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network. and News Now. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times and NBC Chicago.com, contributes to Chicago Tribune.com, Bold, WGN CLTV and KOZN.
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