MLS Multiplex: What are some things that surprised you about MLS, and how would you compare MLS to the Swiss Super League?
Jérôme Thiesson: I knew that (MLS) was going to be bigger than the Swiss League – stadiums, marketing, flying instead of driving on buses – but I honestly expected a little bit lower level of soccer than in Switzerland. And this is where I got surprised; looking back, I’m even happier to have made the move to MLS, because I think I went to an overall better league.
Technically and tactically the players in Switzerland are all about level – the average level is probably a little bit higher than here. In MLS, the spread of levels is bigger. The very good players here would all be superstars in Switzerland. The MLS is also much more demanding in physical aspects. I think Basel and Young Boys, the teams that play for the title every year, would certainly also compete for MLS titles. But there are six or seven MLS teams that could compete with them much more than any other team in Switzerland, and perhaps also beat them.
The other big surprise was the supporters. You think you go to America, where soccer doesn’t mean a lot, where other sports “rule”, but in fact, it is very well followed. Stadiums are filled, crowds are singing and supporting. I love it and, of course, especially our fans who are amazing!
MLS Multiplex: What’s the best away atmosphere you’ve experienced in MLS so far?
Jérôme Thiesson: Away, Chicago. Of course, you’re gonna think that it’s because we won, but no. So many of our fans came down there….they owned the stadium. They sang the whole time and really made it a great atmosphere! And, of course, yes we won in the end and there’s was an “away Wonderwall”…. perhaps it’s no coincidence.
MLS Multiplex: We’ve seen an increase in Swiss players in MLS recently. Do you think we’ll continue to see more players moving from the Swiss league to MLS in the near future? Are there any conversations you’ve had with players back in Switzerland who are maybe looking to make an MLS move?
Jérôme Thiesson: Not only the Swiss, but I generally think we’ll see an increase in foreign and European players wanting to join MLS. MLS is becoming an amazing league! That’s a fact that nobody can deny and everybody is starting to realize. Of course, the salary level in Europe is still a lot higher than the general MLS player and the calendar, especially for national team players, is not yet where they expect it to be in Europe. But already now the interest is rising. Yes, I get contacted once in a while from players who want to know how it is, how I got here, etc., and who would like to join.