By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, Cameroon – Cameroonian international Eric Maxim Choupo Moting has completed a move to the Major League Soccer, MLS with New York Red Bulls, ushering a new chapter in his illustrious career.
The 35-year-old forward joins New York Red Bulls from German side Bayern Munich, bringing a wealth of experience having played for top clubs in Europe. Choupo Moting has signed a deal through 2026 with an option to extend till 2027.
Speaking about the move, Choupo-Moting expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge and opportunity to play in a new environment. “I am very excited to join the club and I can not wait to meet the supporters. See you soon, peace!” Choupo Moting said in a video message posted on the X account of the club.
The Indomitable Lion joins as a Designated Player. The Designated Player (DP) is a roster spot allocated to high-level players who earn significantly more money than the average MLS player. This roster slot was created in July 2007 when David Beckham joined the LA Galaxy in a move that changed MLS forever. The Red Bulls DPs are currently Emil Forsberg and Dante Vanzeir.
A Star Signing for the Red Bulls
The announcement made official on Wednesday, December 18, has been met with excitement from Red Bulls fans and Cameroonians alike. Choupo-Moting is expected to add firepower and versatility to the team’s attack as they aim to challenge for the MLS Cup in the upcoming season.
“Maxim is a strong forward that will bring a lot of experience and leadership to our club,” New York Red Bulls coach Sandro Schwarz said. “He will be a great addition to our roster, and we are looking forward to seeing him on the pitch at Sports Illustrated Stadium.”
“We are excited to add a player of Maxim’s calibre to our roster,” said Head of Sport Jochen Schneider. “Maxim is a great player, a winner and his experience in Europe’s top leagues will be greatly important to our club in 2025 and beyond.”
A Decorated Career
Choupo-Moting brings a decorated resume to New York, having played for top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Bayern Munich. The forward has spent the last four seasons with FC Bayern Munich, where he made 122 appearances and scored 38 goals. He won three Bundesliga titles, one German Cup, and one FIFA Club World Cup in his time with Bayern Munich.
Before Bayern Munich, Choupo-Moting played with Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 for two seasons. He made 51 appearances for the club and recorded nine goals and three assists. He won two Ligue 1 championships and one French Cup with PSG.
The striker has also been a key figure for the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, representing his country in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the FIFA World Cup. Choupo-Moting has been featured on the Cameroon National Team, where he made 73 appearances and scored 20 goals.
He made his first appearance for Cameroon on May 11, 2010, and he played for Cameroon at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. He also helped Cameroon qualify for the 2014 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, which he played in both. Choupo-Moting also scored his first career FIFA World Cup goal in a 3-3 draw against Serbia in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Known for his technical skills, work rate, and ability to play across the front line, Choupo-Moting is widely regarded as a player who thrives in big moments. With the 2024 MLS season approaching, all eyes will be on Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and his impact at New York Red Bulls. The signing not only bolsters the team’s roster but also adds to the league’s appeal as a hub for global football talent.
