Der deutsche Fußball-Eisberg: Panenstiel fordert MLS mit Stimme an
USA's soccer scene is on the rise, not just because of Lionel Messi joining Miami's team. Over in St. Louis, there's a thriving German community. As per Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel, scoring a spot in Major League Soccer means playing in a top-tier league.
Former German league veteran, Lutz Pfannenstiel, thinks that the Major League Soccer is now one of the world's most appealing leagues. "The fact that the World Cup is happening here and the league's allure increases because of that. Outside Europe's top five, the MLS is the best option out there. That's how I see it," shared the Sporting Director of St. Louis City FC. The club currently boasts 11 players with German connections, including Marcel Hartel from FC St. Pauli, Cedric Teuchert from Hannover 96, and Jannes Horn from 1. FC Nuremberg, who just recently relocated to the USA. Hartel played a significant role in St. Pauli's promotion with 17 goals and 13 assists.
"Marcel had several offers from Europe, but the MLS caught his attention. I'm glad he's not playing for a Champions League team in France or somewhere in the Bundesliga, but here with us," said Pfannenstiel. He has a background in club administration at TSG Hoffenheim and Fortuna Düsseldorf. "The transfer was already worth it when we signed Marcel for free, as one of the most desired players in the German market."
Hartel has been in St. Louis since July and has featured in eight MLS matches for his team, scoring two goals and assisting seven. "To be honest, the MLS doesn't have the best reputation, but the league here is amazingly good, the quality is better than expected," he said. Marco Reus recently made the move to the USA, playing for the Los Angeles Galaxy. The prominent figure in the league is Lionel Messi. The Argentine World Cup winner represents Inter Miami.
Lutz Pfannenstiel, the Sporting Director of St. Louis City FC, expressed his belief that the Major League Soccer (MLS) is now one of the most appealing leagues for players outside Europe's top five, including former German league veteran Marcel Hartel. Hartel, who recently relocated to the USA, chose the MLS over offers from Europe due to its allure.
