Thierry Henry: Signing With Red Bulls Presents New Chapter For The French Star

The New York Red Bulls have a new legend in their team. The American side has acquired the talents of Thierry Henry after a transfer from Barcelona.

At first, you would wonder why a player with such a unique and inspiring reputation would move to a team that can be interpreted as a major step down.

I, however, feel that this is a smart move.

For a player who is 32-years-old, he may indeed have a few more years within him. But come on—New York plus the Red Bulls equals a mouth watering prospect.

The place and the prospective exposure most surely influenced the move.

Henry himself is surely eager for the move after a year out of favour at Barcelona.

The horrible nightmare that followed with France's World Cup campaign did little to deter him from disillusionment.

A credible performance for the USA in South Africa will likely cause a rise in the popularity of football. It will not compete with the Super Bowl and the NBA, yet it is garnering a willing and enticed fan-base.

Henry, therefore, is moving to the MLS at a great time.

Not only that, he will get the opportunity to live the truly luxurious lifestyle of the rich and famous. His current riches can only be enhanced by moving to the concrete jungle where dreams are made.

David Beckham brought attention to the sport with his time at LA Galaxy. Now Henry is ready to make his stamp on the place. He will become an American celebrity in his own right.

Obviously, this may detract from the rightful intention and passion of the sport. Yet it can also thrust an already celebrated hero into a league willing to accept and build upon such a superb talent.

I, for one, am insanely jealous. What I would give for a year or two surrounded by the influx of activity in the biggest apple of them all.

The move may also will the mass of American youngsters searching for their path in life. Coupled with the USA's World Cup performance, it may be the impetus they need to reach for the stars and pursue their dreams as athletes.

Whatever happens, Henry's decision to follow in Beckham's footsteps can only increase the spectacle of the world's most famous sport in the world's most famous country.