Nov 8, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; New York Red Bulls forward Thierry Henry (14) advances the ball against the D.C. United during the second half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
The Thierry Henry era in MLS has come to an end today after he announced he will not be returning to the New York Red Bulls next season. He exits MLS after a 2-2 draw with the New England Revolution that saw the Red Bulls being eliminated from the playoffs on aggregate.
For those that had the privilege of watching Henry in MLS knows that he will greatly be missed. Henry showed pure class wherever he was, both on and off the pitch. We cannot forget the amazing talent Henry brought to the field week in and week out either.
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When Henry arrived in New York in 2010, MLS fans in general were excited about the opportunity to see Thierry Henry play. Many fans were hoping they would get to see the same Henry that led the Premier Leagues in scoring for multiple seasons.
They wanted the same Henry known for his picture perfect passes leading to goals. Well, Thierry Henry delivered and it was a joy to watch. He created a record tying goal scoring partnership this year with Bradley Wright-Philips and Henry still manages to make passes that make you just sit there in awe.
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That is why Henry has garnered so much respect throughout the MLS community as he has done throughout the worldwide soccer community. His signing for the Red Bulls after a successful stint with Barcelona sent shockwaves throughout MLS. While many of us wish he had at least one more MLS season, we have to just thank Henry for his time in MLS and all he has done for the sport in the United States.
It was a joy to watch Henry’s talent and class on the field. Where Henry goes from here will remain to be seen. Per Henry’s official facebook page he will take the next few weeks to decide on his future, but we know it will not be with the Red Bulls. If Henry continues to play elsewhere, I look forward to following the rest of his career as it winds down.
He is one of the best players to play in my generation and we can be thankful he played for four and a half years in MLS.