The Chicago Fire’s newest addition to the squad arrived in the Windy City on Tuesday, and supporters flocked to O’Hare International Airport to welcome him.
Bastian Schweinsteiger has attracted lots of excitement when it was announced he would be signing as a Designated Player for the Fire. The long time Bayern Munich and German international star has a storied career and has earned the respect and loyalty of fans all over the world.
On Tuesday, he arrived in his new home, as he leaves Manchester Untied to join the Major League Soccer side. He received a superstars welcome with fans crowding around to get a glimpse and photo of the latest superstar to come to America.
.@BSchweinsteiger has landed. 🛬
— Chicago Fire FC (@ChicagoFire) March 28, 2017
Head over to Facebook to watch his welcome live! ➡️ https://t.co/h25U0GiUJY #cf97 pic.twitter.com/lpUmIYhBx9
Schweinsteiger was even willing to take photos with a few fans.
Wow! Way to turn up @ChicagoFire fans! Huge welcome for @BSchweinsteiger at O'Hare tonight. #cf97 #CHIweinsteiger pic.twitter.com/atQGbKMIdx
— Frank Stranzl (@frankstranzl) March 29, 2017
The one-year deal has received some criticism in its own right, as the fee was reported at $4.5 million. Some have already questioned the move, with the belief that his best days are behind him. Either way, his arrival on Tuesday was a great sign that the supporters are excited and the club is set to host perhaps one of the greatest midfield players in recent times.
On Wednesday, the Fire will hold a press conference for Schweinsteiger’s arrival. It can be watched via Chicago-Fire.com and or CSN+ for those with access to the regional network.
Schweinsteiger will be available for selection on Saturday as the Fire will host the Montreal Impact. It could be the perfect setting for the midfielder to make his debut, even if it’s a brief cameo late in the match.
Over the past week, he has been training in Spain at RCD Mallorca’s facilities as he waited for his visa to be granted, which may point to him being match ready.
Thanks for the possibility to have some training sessions on your facilities until I get my visa for the US, RCD Mallorca ⚽ pic.twitter.com/Q9RLRA20QK
— Bastian Schweinsteiger (@BSchweinsteiger) March 26, 2017
Next: MLS: All the Goals from Week 4
Lastly, Schweinsteiger’s jersey is now available for purchase at MLSstore.com, which already appears to be doing quite well in jersey sales. Perhaps will we see him wearing one on Saturday.