MLS Headline of the Year (so far): Clint Dempsey to Seattle Sounders

After all the transfer rumors lead to #Dempseywatch, it was finally confirmed; Clint Dempsey will play the next four years with Seattle Sounders. Reports are Seattle has guaranteed Dempsey $6-8 million per season over the next four seasons. This makes him the most expensive player in league history. Yes, beating David Beckham’s base salary of $5-6 million (other areas of his contract are what helped him earn over $200 million in his years with LA Galaxy).

This transfer created a lot of headlines and contradicting opinions. Is this good for MLS? (hell yeah!) Is this good for Demspey? (debatable) Will this hurt the US National Team? (depends)

Most fans identified with one of the following: 1) What is Dempsey thinking?! He can still give so much in the Premier League. Worst Decision Ever. 2) Dempsey is 30 years old, not 25. He wants to come back home to finish his career.  It only made sense. 3) Dempsey is coming to MLS in his prime! He wants to prove that MLS is a very competitive league and wants to help the league grow. Best Decision Ever.

In my opinion, this is definitely good for Major League Soccer. Dempsey is one of the biggest names in US Soccer and Seattle has proven to be a real soccer city. After Beckham and Henry, he is the biggest name in the world to sign with Major League Soccer after playing in Europe. He has scored huge goals against teams like Manchester United and has a great resume.

Yes, he won’t be playing against teams like Manchester United but at least he will be playing. At 30 years old, I’m with the group of people that thinks Dempsey was still able to compete in Europe.  In Tottenham, though, he wasn’t consistent enough and with Seattle he is assured 90 minutes of playing time. That is why I believe it was a good move on Dempsey’s part. As a USMNT supporter, I would rather see Dempsey playing than on the bench. On the other hand, I understand when people say they would have rather see him play in another European team to get ready for the World Cup.  Most of the opponents you will face in a World Cup play in Europe, especially getting into the final rounds.

In the end, Dempsey has proven to be a quality player for the clubs he has represented and for the USMNT. He is right by Donovan in the top players for the US.  The MLS did not hurt Donovan; I don’t think it will hurt Dempsey.