Sidney Sladen
Manchester United star Bastian Schweinsteiger has announced that he will be leaving the club at the end of the season, after spending two seasons at Old Trafford. He revealed that he’d be joining MLS side Chicago Fire.
According to Chicago Tribune Newspaper, the former Germany captain will join Chicago Fire on a one-year deal.
Schweinsteiger said on his social media:
“Dear fans of Manchester United, I’ve decided to make a permanent move to Chicago Fire,’ he said in a video message posted on his official Twitter account. I really wish I could have done more for you but it was time for me to make a change. Thank you especially for your amazing support during my time at the club, I will never forget it.”
“Having been part of the team which won the FA Cup, this makes me very proud. I’d also like to say thank you very much to the wonderful fans, the atmosphere, and also the great staff at the club, especially my fellow players, so thank you very much.”
“I believe and I’m sure that Jose Mourinho and his team will bring back the trophies to Manchester United soon, so I wish you all the best, thank you very much and goodbye. I am sad to leave so many friends at Manchester United. But I am grateful to the club for allowing me the chance to take up this challenge.”
He added: “I have enjoyed working with the manager, players and staff but I have to reserve special thanks to the fans. I will always remember their energy and their passion.”
Bastian posted this message on his Facebook and Twitter accounts to let the fans know of his next move.
Schweinsteiger has scored 24 goals in 121 career appearances for the German national team, including a start in its victory over Argentina in the 2014 World Cup final. His 13 seasons starring for Bayern Munich included the 2013 Champions League title and eight titles in Germany’s top division. He won
Bundesliga player of the year honours in 2013.
He signs a deal that guarantees him $4.5 million in 2017, as reported by Chicago Tribune. The deal makes him one of the 10 highest-paid players in MLS and includes a mutual option for at least one more year.
Chicago Fire General Manager had some glowing words to say about the veteran.
He said: “We’re adding someone who has won at every level, including the very highest levels, and has done so in a way that is consistent with our values,” Fire general manager Nelson Rodriguez said. “We as a club will now be forced to hold ourselves to a higher standard, an accountability level. Previously, I think we could satisfy ourselves with what is known domestically. Now we need to rise to a standard that is set more internationally.”
He added: “In the locker room, he will be a huge example of a champion,” Paunovic said. “He still is somebody that can show that on the field and (demonstrate) how our guys have to work, prepare, behave, think and work together in order to get to that level.”
Schweinsteiger without a doubt has been a great servant for Manchester United and his decision is sure to shake up the Old Trafford faithful.
We thank you Bastian, for gracing the Premier League with your presence. It was a pleasure to have watched you play in England.
