Bundesliga side FC Köln have announced the departure of 31-year-old defender Rafael Czichos to MLS side Chicago Fire.
“To lose a leader and one of the most important players during a season is not a scenario that you wish to find yourself in,” said sporting director Jörg Jakobs.
Czichos added: “As the offer from the USA came in, I decided to make a dream come true and move to the US for the next three years. I am really looking forward to the new challenge, although I have very much enjoyed working with the team and coach over the past six months.”
It’s unclear as to whether Köln will sign a replacement in the January transfer window with Jorge Meré providing competition for Timo Hübers and Luca Killian whilst 20-year-old Sava-Arangel Čestić will also provide depth.
