Washington (AFP) – England record goalscorer Wayne Rooney left boyhood club Everton for D.C. United of Major League Soccer on Thursday, saying he hungers for American success to fulfill a career goal.
The US club and English Premier League outfit announced the agreement on a permanent transfer as Rooney was on a flight to Washington.
Rooney will complete his move when the MLS transfer window opens on July 10 and should be in the squad four days later when beleaguered United plays host to the Vancouver Whitecaps in the opening game at the US club’s new stadium.
“It is fantastic to be joining D.C. United at such an exciting time in the club’s history with the new stadium opening in just a few weeks,” Rooney said in a statement.
“Moving to America and MLS fulfills another career ambition for me. I have the hunger to be a success here and will give D.C. 100 percent — as I have always done for every team I have ever played for.”
Rooney, 32, signed a three and a half year deal said to be worth $13 million. His 208 goals in 16 Premier League seasons ranks second on the all-time list.
“When I visited earlier this summer I was really impressed with everyone I met connected with the club, and of course the new Audi Field,” Rooney said. “Now I can’t wait to get on the pitch in a United shirt and join my new teammates to bring success to this club.”
Rooney departed with the best wishes of his former club, the same Everton club where he began his career at age 16 in 2002.
“From everyone at Everton, we thank Wayne for his service to the club and wish him every success in the next 3 1/2 years with DC United,” the club statement said.
United couldn’t be happier to see Rooney, needing a big-name drawing card for its new stadium and a talent boost to revamp a club at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference.
“This is a seminal moment for our fans and organization. Wayne is a global soccer icon and his presence at DC United will elevate our product on the pitch and soccer as a whole in our city and in this country,” said United chief executive Jason Levien.
“Wayne has thrived when competing at the most elite levels of soccer and we’re thrilled to have his leadership as we enter this new era.”
from World Soccer Talk https://ift.tt/2tD1Psd
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