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FC Dallas: Is Walker Zimmerman on his way to Germany?

By Dan Cunningham

Mar 4, 2017; Carson, CA, USA; FC Dallas defender Walker Zimmerman (right) blocks a shot on goal attempt by Los Angeles Galaxy forward Giovani Dos Santos in the first half of the home opener at StubHub Center. FC Dallas defeated the Galaxy 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Carson, CA, USA; FC Dallas defender Walker Zimmerman (right) blocks a shot on goal attempt by Los Angeles Galaxy forward Giovani Dos Santos in the first half of the home opener at StubHub Center. FC Dallas defeated the Galaxy 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cristian Pulisic tends to be the one US player making the headlines in Germany this year as he takes the Bundesliga by storm. But rumors have now begun concerning another US youngster, Walker Zimmerman.

This is a great endorsement. For both the MLS and FC Dallas.

The rumors are that second-tier clubs VfB Stuttgart and Hannover 96 are eyeing up Zimmerman as they both push for promotion to the Bundesliga.

And interest in Zimmerman is understandable; the 6 foot 3 inch 23 year old has been a consistent presence in Dallas since they took him with the #7 pick of the 2013 SuperDraft.

But it was his impressive man-of-the-match debut for the US National team last month which really got people taking notice. ESPN’s Jason Davis offered this flawless scouting report on how he rose to the occasion:

"“Excellent all night. Composed and aggressive when necessary. Passed well out of the back and showed bravery by pushing the space in front of him when available.”"

But that is all it is…

… an endorsement of US home-grown talent. Because while Germany (and the Bundesliga) is a top three European football league, right now both of these clubs sit in their second tier.

MLS is the best place to serve his talents as he continues to make his mark as a bona fide international.

So, what’s next?

Well, from a MLS point of view, these rumors are good for the league as they generate positive association. But that’s all they should be, rumors, as in order for MLS to realize it’s potential as a top league, it needs to be keeping hold of it’s top players.

From Zimmerman’s point of view, understandably this would be a different story if it were a Bundesliga side, but in Dallas he is in good company, partnering with MLS defensive player of the year, Matt Hedges.

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And from Dallas’s point of view, it is entirely incumbent on them to keep him, because despite the flattery of European football, it is not only best the best thing for them and MLS is if he stays, it may also be best for Zimmerman if he does.

Give us your thoughts below.

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