Messi’s Star Power Shines, Müller’s MLS Bound: Forsberg Weighs In on American Soccer’s Evolution
The Major League Soccer (MLS) is experiencing a seismic shift, fueled by the arrival of global icons like Lionel Messi and soon, Bayern Munich legend Thomas Müller. As the league continues its rapid ascent, Swedish star Emil Forsberg, currently thriving with the New York Red Bulls, offers a unique perspective on what awaits Müller and the evolving landscape of American soccer. This is breaking news for soccer fans worldwide, and a significant moment for the MLS as it cements its place on the global stage. This article is optimized for Google News and SEO to ensure rapid indexing.
Forsberg on Messi: The Hype is Real (and the Stadiums are Full)
Despite the initial whirlwind of excitement surrounding Messi’s move to Inter Miami, Forsberg believes the hype remains justified. “He is the greatest player in football history, an absolute world star,” Forsberg stated in a recent interview. He recounted a recent 5-1 defeat against Messi’s Inter Miami, noting that the stadium was packed with fans eager to witness the Argentinian maestro. “We lost clearly, and the whole stadium was full of Messi fans.” This underscores Messi’s enduring appeal and the immediate impact he’s had on attendance and interest in the MLS.
Müller’s MLS Adventure: “It’s Really Cool!”
The impending arrival of Thomas Müller to the Vancouver Whitecaps has generated considerable buzz. Forsberg, who faced Müller numerous times during his time with RB Leipzig, is enthusiastic about the move. “Thomas Müller in the MLS is really cool! Vancouver is also a great city, he will have a good time there. For the whole league, it’s a super story.” He believes Müller will instantly elevate Vancouver’s chances, labeling them “a title favorite” with his addition. This influx of European talent is a key indicator of the MLS’s growing prestige.
Life in the MLS: Show, Rain, and a League on the Rise
Forsberg, now in his year and a half with the New York Red Bulls, paints a vivid picture of life in the MLS. He describes a league brimming with “a lot of show” but also characterized by passionate fans and increasingly competitive play. He humorously noted the unpredictable weather, recounting recent games interrupted by severe storms. “If it rains in the USA, it really rains. And if it’s windy, it’s really, really windy.” More seriously, he emphasized the league’s upward trajectory: “The league is getting better and better. I feel like it’s becoming more and more attractive for players.”
Timo Werner to New York? Forsberg Keeps His Cards Close
The conversation inevitably turned to Forsberg’s former RB Leipzig teammate, Timo Werner, who has been linked with a move to the MLS. When asked about potential calls from the Red Bull organization to convince Werner to join, Forsberg playfully deflected, stating, “I won’t say anything about that.” Werner has reportedly been offered a two-and-a-half-year contract, and Forsberg acknowledged that a move would be beneficial for the Red Bulls, but ultimately, “it’s up to him to make a decision that makes him happy.”
Staying Connected to Leipzig & The Future
Despite his success in the MLS, Forsberg remains deeply connected to his former club, RB Leipzig. He maintains regular contact with players like Kevin Kampl and Péter Gulácsi, whom he still considers the best goalkeeper in the league. He’s keenly following Leipzig’s new season, acknowledging the significant changes with a new coach and a young squad. The departure of club legend Yussuf Poulsen hit him hard, and he hopes Poulsen receives a proper farewell. Looking ahead, Forsberg, whose contract runs through 2026, isn’t contemplating retirement as long as he’s performing well and enjoying the game. “As long as I deliver and feel good, I’m not thinking about the end.”
The MLS is no longer a retirement league; it’s a destination for world-class talent, attracting players like Messi and Müller and fostering a vibrant, competitive environment. Forsberg’s insights offer a compelling glimpse into this evolving landscape, highlighting the league’s growing appeal and its potential to become a global soccer powerhouse. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of the MLS and the latest developments in the world of soccer.
