Chicago Fire re-sign Schweinsteiger for 2018 season

The Chicago Fire announced Thursday the club has re-signed Bastian Schweinsteiger to a new Designated Player deal for the 2018 season, retaining the star man brought in to great success in the team's midfield last March.

Formerly of Bayern Munich and Manchester United, Schweinsteiger made 25 appearances for Chicago in 2017, scoring three times and recording six assists while helping the once-feeble Fire return to playoff form. While hopes of a World Cup berth for Chicago remain unlikely (and also technically impossible), Schweinsteiger did set his sights on bringing silverware to the Windy City.

"I am very happy to re-sign with the Chicago Fire, and to continue what we started in 2017," Schweinsteiger said in a club-issued statement. "Last year was a special moment for my career, but it felt incomplete without a trophy. But I am sure we can create another memorable season with the support of our great fans. I love this city, this sport, and winning, so I look forward to another season with the Fire as we progress to hopefully another level of success."

Though terms of the deal were not disclosed, the former Germany international earned $5.4 million in 2017, and is likely to earn a similar wage in 2018 due to his star-power, pedigree, and experience. He wore the captain's armband in the 2017 MLS All-Star Game against Real Madrid, and club general manager Nelson Rodriguez sees the 33-year-old as a key piece in the team's rebuild and trophy hunt.

"He's a proven winner who was an integral part of our success in 2017," Rodriguez said. "Bastian's talent combined with his character and qualities off the field are vital to our squad as we continue to build a championship program."

To that end, Schweinsteiger spelled out a simple goal in a letter penned by the player and posted to the Fire's official website: "It's time to get back to work."