MLS: 5 Manchester United men that have shaped American soccer

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Nani and Wayne Rooney of Manchester United celebrate after the Barclays Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on May 16 2009, in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images) /

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Manchester United’s goalkeeper Tim Howard celebrates victory (Photo by John Walton/EMPICS via Getty Images) /

2. Tim Howard

The first big export of American soccer to the Premier League. In 2003, Tim Howard left the New York Red Bulls to become Man United’s number one and as result, put his name in the history books as the first American to play for the club in the MLS era.

Howard would go on to become one of English soccers greatest goalkeepers and of course, a legend of American soccer as well. But it was over in Manchester where this man was made. After a fantastic first season in England at just 24-years old, Howard would help United win the FA Cup in his debut campaign.

Without United, Howard may never have reached the heights he did. And without Howard’s United tenure, the MLS may never have taken off as it has. The current Rapids man is one of the first players to put American soccer on the map, with thanks to his time at Manchester United.

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