Schweini signs for Chicago
CHICAGO: Former Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger has signed for Major League Soccer side the Chicago Fire from Premier League giants Manchester United in one-year deal reported to be worth US$4.5 million, the English club confirmed yesterday.
Schweinsteiger, a key member of Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning team, heads to the United States after an unhappy stint with Manchester United, where he has been frozen out by manager Jose Mourinho.
The 32-year-old, who scored 24 goals in 121 appearances for Germany, will join Chicago subject to a medical and a visa being obtained.
“I am sad to leave so many friends at Manchester United,” Schweinsteiger told the Manchester United website.
“But I am grateful to the club for allowing me the chance to take up the challenge at Chicago Fire.”
Schweinsteiger, who is married to now retired former women’s tennis world No.1 Ana Ivanovic, expressed his thanks to Mourinho and his teammates.
“I have enjoyed working with the manager, the players and staff here and wish them all the best in the future,” he said.
“But I have to reserve special thanks to the United fans — whose support has been a very special part of my time in Manchester.
“I was delighted to be part of the squad that won the FA Cup for them last season and will always remember their energy and their passion. Now is the right time for me to start a new chapter in Chicago and I am looking forward to it.”
United kept their tribute to one line with no comment from Mourinho.
“Everybody at United would like to wish Bastian the very best of luck in his new career in the United States,” the club said on its website.