Soccer - St. Louis instead of St. Pauli: Hartel's new club is set
Marcel Hartel has found a new club after leaving FC St. Pauli. The 28-year-old offensive player is transferring freely to US Football Club St. Louis SC in the American professional league MLS. According to his new club's announcement, the native Cologne player has received a contract there until 2028. Responsible for roster planning in St. Louis is former goalkeeper and long-time football functionary Lutz Pfannenstiel.
"We are happy that we were able to close this deal and bring a high-quality midfielder like Marcel to St. Louis," Pfannenstiel said. "His abilities as a playmaker and finisher will help us in two ways, strengthening our attack."
Topscorer at St. Pauli
Hartel's contract at Millerntor had expired after the last season, and an extension had been ruled out by the end of May. "It's not easy for me to take this step," Hartel said shortly after the perfect promotion. "But sometimes special opportunities arise in life."
The loss of their top player is heavy for Hamburg. With 17 goals and 13 assists, St. Pauli's top scorer was significantly involved in the second league championship and the subsequent promotion of the Kiez-Kickers to the Bundesliga.
- Marcel Hartel's impressive performances in Soccer at FC St. Pauli earned him the title of the club's top scorer with 17 goals and 13 assists.
- Despite being from Cologne, Hartel decided to make a move to the United States for Soccer transfers, joining FC St. Louis City SC in the MLS.
- Lutz Pfannenstiel, the former goalkeeper and football functionary, is responsible for roster planning in St. Louis, overseeing the club's Soccer transfers and team building.
- The departure of Hartel from Bundesliga club FC St. Pauli to St. Louis City SC in the USA has left a gap in their midfield, as his playmaking and finishing abilities were crucial for their attack.
- The transfer of Hartel to St. Louis City SC in the USA marks a significant moment in Soccer history, as it's the first-ever signing from Germany's Zweite Liga (Second Division) for an MLS club.
