Although it seemed like German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger is close to signing a contract extension with Chicago Fire, that won’t be the case. Instead, Schweinsteiger decided to retire from soccer and put an end to an illustrious and successful career at the age of 35.
Schweinsteiger announced his decision via a letter posted on social media in which he thanked his fans, the clubs he played for, and his family for the support.
“Saying goodbye as an active player makes me feel a little nostalgic, but I am also looking forward to the exciting challenges that await me soon,” – said Schweinsteiger in the letter. “I will remain faithful to football. Many, many thanks for the time we spent together, I will always have a place for you in my heart.”
Bastian Schweinsteiger spent the majority of his career with German powerhouse Bayern Munich, with whom he played for 13 seasons and won 18 trophies including eight Bundesliga titles and one Champions League. Schweinsteiger left Bayern in 2015 to join Premier League giants Manchester United, but played only two seasons in England before coming to MLS.
During his time with Fire, Schweinsteiger played 86 games in MLS and scored eight goals while contributing with 15 assists. He earned MLS All-Star honors in 2017 and 2019.
