After months of rumors, the New York Red Bulls confirmed on Monday that Australian midfielder Tim Cahill has left the club by mutual agreement.
Cahill, 35, scored 14 goals and notched 10 assists in two-and-a-half seasons with the Red Bulls after joining the club in July 2012 as a Designated Player. He added two goals and one assist in nine playoff games, helping New York to the 2013 Supporters' Shield and Eastern Conference Championship in 2014. He was voted to the MLS Best XI and named an MLS All-Star in 2013.
"This decision was not made lightly, and it is the result of many conversations between our staff, Tim and his agent," Red Bulls Sporting Director Ali Curtis said in a club statement. "After much deliberation, we have agreed that this decision is best for all involved. We thank Tim for his service to the organization. He positively impacted the growth of the beautiful game in the United States, MLS and for the Red Bulls. We are pleased that Tim will continue to be an ambassador for Red Bull moving forward."
While playing for the Red Bulls, Cahill continued to excel for Australia, helping the Socceroos reach the 2014 FIFA World Cup and scoring two goals in Brazil, one a superb over-the-shoulder volley. He recently helped Australia to their first Asian Cup championship, scoring three goals in the tournament. He has been linked with moves to clubs in the United Arab Emirates and China.
"I've enjoyed every moment of my time at the Red Bulls and leave with great memories," said Cahill. "I joined with the ambition of helping to grow and positively affect soccer in the US, and I feel immensely proud of what we achieved as a team during my time in the MLS. Winning the Supporters' Shield was, without doubt, one of the best moments I have experienced in my career, and I am now looking forward to my next chapter, which I will announce in due course."
