German superstar Bastian Schweinsteiger is parting ways with Manchester United to join MLS side Chicago Fire.
The former Bayern Munich player now awaits a medical and visa clearances to complete his switch to the MLS side, but Chicago Fire bosses are keen to fast-track the process, Manchester United have confirmed.
.@BSchweinsteiger to join Chicago Fire, subject to medical and visa: https://t.co/CyYuBV4HdG
All the best, Bastian. ? #MUFC pic.twitter.com/XKSUA6XJO2
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 21, 2017
The 32-year-old midfielder joined Manchester United from Bayern Munich in 2015 and earned 35 appearances – also winning the FA Cup title under former boss Louis Van Gaal last season.
After taking charge at Old Trafford in the summer, Mourinho had made it clear that Schweinsteiger is not in his plans for the season and the German saw himself demoted before earning a recall in the last few months.
The former Bayern Munich star has been more of a fringe player for Man Utd but has displayed sparks of brilliance in very little game-time that he earned under Mourinho.
Thanks to all fans, the whole staff and my teammates of @ManUtd! I will never forget my time with the club, but now it’s time for a change! pic.twitter.com/zYn2o5Cjsk
— Basti Schweinsteiger (@BSchweinsteiger) March 21, 2017
The World Cup winner has been a fan favourite at Man Utd and now ahead of his departure he has bid an emotional farewell to the club and the fans.
Schweinsteiger told Manchester United’s official website: “I am sad to leave so many friends at Manchester United.”
“But I am grateful to the club for allowing me the chance to take up the challenge at Chicago Fire.”
“I have enjoyed working with the manager, the players and staff here and wish them all the best in the future.”
“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.”
It was former Red Devils manager Louis Van Gaal, who believed in the German’s potential and brought him to United and he later revealed that he had to convince the Old Trafford hierarchy of the wisdom of the deal.
Class is permanent but his form was affected by an injury and it was understood that his best days are well behind him before new boss Mourinho axed him from the first-team.
And now his fellow Man Utd teammates have taken to twitter to wish all the luck ahead of his move to the MLS Side.
