Over recent years, there have been several notable figures in soccer making their appearances overseas in the MLS (Major League Soccer). The most famous players include Andrea Pirlo, Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard, Ricardo Kaka, David Villa and Steven Gerrard. These players found pastures new from their clubs in Europe, and graced the fields of the United States, giving Americans a different blend on how to play the beautiful game. All these players have one thing in common: they have all won the UEFA Champions League, the greatest prestige for club soccer in Europe. With all these new arrivals from abroad, Chicago Fire fans have been wondering when will their European

The prolonged wait has come to an end. Announced on March 21, 2017, German soccer player Bastian Schweinsteiger let the world know on social media platforms Twitter and Facebook of his departure from English-side Manchester United. The 32-year old captioned his emotional farewell with, “I will never forget my time with the club (Manchester United), but now it’s time for a change!” as he gave his announcement of joining the Chicago Fire. Bastian Schweinsteiger’s decorated career includes 19 domestic awards won with Bayern Munich, a UEFA Supercup, a FIFA Club World Cup, a UEFA Champions League, and the highest honor of winning the FIFA World Cup with Germany in 2014. The arrival of such a fantastic player is a huge achievement for a club like the Chicago Fire.

Chicagoans were asked to express their delight over Schweinsteiger’s transfer to the United States. Noah Webster ‘17 said, “Literally the single reason I will be going to Chicago Fire games from now on.” Christion Rice ‘18 expressed his excitement saying, “Perhaps now Chicago Fire will be able to return to their former glory.” Currently, Chicago Fire sit in 7th place in the Eastern Conference.

Bastian Schweinsteiger did not fail to impress in his debut game for the Chicago Fire. Schweinsteiger scored a header on the 17th minute against Montreal Impact, opening his account for the Fire. The game had 2 red cards and 2 stoppage time goals, but the climax of the game was Schweinsteiger’s dream start for the Chicago Fire. This transfer has brought more popularity to the Fire, as well as a huge increase in jersey sales.