It has been rumored for weeks, but it is not official. The New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer have signed French star Thierry Henry to a “multi-year contract”.
Henry, who is 32, is expected to make his debut for Red Bulls in a friendly against Tottenham on 22 July. Buy Red Bulls v Spurs Tickets.
As expected Dietmar Beiersdorfer, head of Red Bull global soccer, is exastic with his new signing saying:
“It is without question that Thierry Henry is one of the most successful and recognisable soccer players over the past 15 years. We are thrilled that Thierry has decided to come to New York to help the Red Bulls compete for championships this year and for years to come. His international pedigree is second to none and he is a proven winner.”
“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,” said Erik Soler, general manager and sporting director of the Red Bulls. “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 organization the premium franchise in Major League Soccer.”
Henry had this to say about moving from Barcelona to New York:
“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.”
Last season was a tough one for Henry as he fell out of favour at Barcelona and then he suffered through a terrible World Cup with France.
But Henry can still play at the highest level and he is now arguably the best player now in MLS. The Red Bulls will partner Henry up front with Roque Santa Cruz in the best scoring partnership in MLS.
This is a great move for MLS and has to make the Red Bulls the favorite from the East to appear in this years MLS Cup in Toronto.
Henry will be introduced at a press conference on Thursday at Red Bull Arena.
photo credit: themikelee
