Ex-Arsenal hitman Thierry Henry has switched to the MLS to play with the New York Red Bulls from Barcelona on a multi year contract. The 32 year old has become out of favour at the Nou Camp and makes the switch to America after three years at Barcelona.
A statement from the Red Bulls said Henry was expected to make his debut on 22nd July against Tottenham at Red Bull Arena for the Barclays New York Challenge.
Henry said, “This marks an exciting new chapter in my career and life. It is an honour to play for the New York Red Bulls. I am fully aware of the team’s history and my sole goal during my time here is to help win the club its first championship. Knowing Red Bull’s significant commitment to soccer locally and internationally, I am confident that my team-mates and I will succeed.”
Erik Soler, Red Bull New York general manager and sporting director, said: “Thierry is not only a world-class player who will undoubtedly improve our squad, but he has shown most importantly throughout his career that he is a winner. He has made it clear to us that he is committed in the short and long term to help in our vision of making our organisation the premium franchise in Major League Soccer.”
Henry’s move to New York is understandable, given the rise in football over in America. Beckham plays in America, the performances of the American national team and the constant media swirl about Ronaldinho’s potential move to LA Galaxy to play alongside Beckham gives more advantages to moving to America. Henry, at 32, is falling out of favour at Barcelona and with the French squad, so he will probably spend his twilight years at Red Bulls, much like Best, Pele and now Beckham before him spent theirs in the MLS.
