Is Choupo-Moting the missing piece for New York Red Bulls’ attack? | OneFootball

The New York Red Bulls have signed forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, in what could be termed a smart piece of business. The 35-year-old Cameroonian links up on a deal that runs until 2026, with an option to extend through 2027, and takes on the mantle of Designated Player on the roster.

Without pretending to be one of the best stars, Choupo-Moting is a sure purchase. Having played for Bayern Munich, PSG, and Stoke City, he has the experience to behave with confidence in those moments when it counts the most. For a team that had been seeking attacking consistency and some better results in MLS this season, it makes much sense. The Importance of An Experienced Player

With 457 games, 107 goals scored, and 48 assists throughout his career, Choupo-Moting has proved himself capable of delivering, even when the squad's roster is packed with top guns. He's not really that kind of forward - one who usually defines the outlook of a match on his own - but rather just an efficient complement.

His experience in big European leagues brings maturity that could prove very useful in a competition like MLS. The Red Bulls know the playoffs from last season were eliminated by eventual champions LA Galaxy and require players to add not just goals but consistency and tactical intelligence as well. Combined with Forsberg and Vanzeir,

Choupo-Moting joins an attack that already includes Bundesliga veteran Emil Forsberg, who joined last winter, and Dante Vanzeir. The Cameroonian will definitely give head coach Sandro Schwarz an extra tactical option-up front, either to start or to come from the bench during matches.

He does not need to be the focus of the attack, but rather can provide a solution in tight games. The fact he has been competing at such a high level the last few years gives him confidence to adjust to MLS.

A pragmatic move for 2025

The decision to bring in Choupo-Moting reflects a pragmatic approach by the New York Red Bulls. Rather than putting all their eggs in the basket of young prospects, the club opted for a well-established name, someone with the experience to contribute in the present.

Although he's not a spotlight player, he should be able to get the job done on a solid and consistent level. "Maxim is a strong forward who will bring experience and leadership to our club," summarized head coach Sandro Schwarz. With these words, he stressed that New York Red Bulls want to build a team to fight seriously during the 2025 season.

Appropriate expectations

At 35, Choupo-Moting comes as a reliable alternative. His contribution might just be precisely that: to bring experience and to fortify the team in those decisive moments.

Furthermore, having a player of international experience has its effects off the pitch, too. In a team with several younger players, along with other important figures, he does have the ability to act as a reference and help develop the collective growth of the team.