Mark Bosnich, a Fox Sports football commentator, believes that reports linking Harry Kewell to America’s Major League Soccer may suggest a looming A-League stint for the Socceroos veteran.
The Turkish giant Galatasaray, with whom Kewell has a contract set to expire in June, currently finds itself in 13th place in the Turkish Super Lig. Bosnich contemplates that Kewell may find himself in the A-League in the next three years.
“I genuinely think that somewhere in his mind, he harbors the desire to showcase his talents in the A-League, even if only for one season,” remarked Bosnich.
“Having grown up here, he embodies the kind of person who seeks to give back to his roots.”
“One must be pragmatic, and this isn’t meant to diminish the A-League; rather, it relates to the financial opportunities available. As a player, your career is limited, and it’s essential to capitalize on that.”
“There’s also the possibility that this could simply be a strategy to motivate a few A-League clubs, saying: ‘Look, I might head to the MLS. Are you interested?’ So we shouldn’t dismiss that possibility either.”
Bosnich cautioned that Kewell’s agent may be using this speculation as a tactic to generate options and ensure that his client’s future remains under consideration.
Bosnich asserts that the Socceroos No.10 still possesses considerable potential at the highest level but added that moving to America could serve as a satisfactory option, without being a slight against Australia’s domestic league.
“I know Harry holds a profound affection for America,” Bosnich indicated.
“Since the arrival of David Beckham, the American league, MLS, has experienced significant growth.”
“Although it went through difficult times during the sixth, seventh, and eighth seasons, the league has dramatically improved over the past three or four seasons with the likes of David Beckham, Thierry Henry, and (Juan) Pablo Angel, who previously played for Aston Villa.”
“I believe this could be a viable option for Harry, but I still think he’s young enough to continue playing a bit longer in Europe.”
“Should he be contemplating a move to MLS, it would signal a positive development for Australian football, suggesting that perhaps the A-League could be his final destination.”
Danny Allsopp, a striker for Melbourne Victory, has stated that the MLS is a more physical and combative league compared to the A-League. However, Bosnich believes this should not deter Kewell.
“You saw him remove his shirt during the Iraq match—he has always demonstrated athleticism,” Bosnich noted.
“The primary concern surrounding Harry has been his recurring injuries. I believe he often became his own worst enemy, driven by his desire to play and the eagerness of his managers to have him on the field.”
“As long as he maintains full fitness, he should be capable of competing anywhere.”
Understanding Kewell’s potential hesitations in returning to Australia due to familial and professional considerations, Bosnich expresses where he would like to see his fellow Western Sydney product should he decide to come back.
“In terms of timing, it will ultimately depend on his personal decision,” Bosnich commented.
“I would predict that he may return within the next three years.”
“Being a boy from Western Sydney, much like myself, if there’s no team from Western Sydney, I would prefer to see him at Sydney.”
With players like Jason Culina and Matty McKay thriving in the Socceroos from the domestic league, the former Australia No.1 believes a return home will not hinder Kewell’s ambition to continue playing in green and gold.
by Buford Balony
