Xabi Alonso Could Make a Move to MLS Next Summer

Aug 6, 2014; Portland, OR, USA; A general view of team banners unfurled over the grandstand before the 2014 MLS All Star Game at Providence Park. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 6, 2014; Portland, OR, USA; A general view of team banners unfurled over the grandstand before the 2014 MLS All Star Game at Providence Park. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports

Legendary Spanish midfielder, Xabi Alonso, could make a move to MLS after his contract with FC Bayern Munich expires next summer.

In a recent interview with ESPN FC, Xabi Alonso did not rule out a move to MLS next season when his contract runs out with Bayern Munich. The United States’ top flight has been growing in name value and talent level over the past few years and is becoming an option for plenty of European players. A move for Alonso may be in the books as he nears the end of his career.

The legendary midfielder could potentially follow the likes of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, and Andrea Pirlo who are finishing off their historic careers in the United States. He could also follow fellow Spaniard, David Villa, who currently plays for NYCFC in MLS.

The 34-year old former World Cup Champion would be 35 when his contract is up next summer. He must first make the decision if he wants to continue playing but if he does, Major League Soccer could be a viable option. I think that the league and many teams would be interested in signing the established veteran.

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Many critics would say that this would only continue the narrative that MLS is a place where football legends go to retire. But if a 34-year old Alonso is good enough to play for one of the best teams in Europe in Bayern Munich, why would a 35-year old Xabi be that much worse? This would also give millions of fans around the United States a chance to see the legendary player play one last time.

Alonso is one of the most decorated footballers still playing today as he has won the Champions League twice and a World Cup in 2010. He has also won multiple of club level trophies during his career. Xabi previously played for Real Sociedad, Liverpool, and Real Madrid in his career. He has also made more than 100 caps for the Spanish National Team.

Here is the full quote from Xabi Alonso with ESPN FC:

“At the moment I don’t know what’s going to happen in my future, what I will do next year, if I will continue,” Alonso said. “For sure one option could be to come here to the States to live and to play in an MLS team. For sure I will consider it because you’re still competing at a good level, you get to live and get to know a new country, have a new experience. We’ll see.”

It will be interesting to see if Xabi does in fact choose to come to MLS next season. I think it would be a great signing even if it would only be for a year or two. He could make an impact with a club and at the very least draw a crowd and sell jerseys.