Having just left Chelsea after 13 successful years at Stamford Bridge, Frank Lampard is set for pastures new abroad. Rumours are circulating, though, that next season will see the midfielder playing in not one but two countries.
According to the Mirror, a deal is soon to be announced that will take the Blues legend to Manchester City’s Major League Soccer franchise New York City FC. Before the MLS season starts next spring, however, Lampard will move down under to represent the Etihad club’s Australian team Melbourne City. Recently returning from the World Cup in Brazil with England, the moves will result in the 36-year-old competing in four continents in less than a year. Despite all his career achievements, that would be quite an impressive feat for the midfielder to add to his résumé.
With all the goals Lampard has scored in the Premier League, it would be surprising to see him not continue to find the net in the A-League and MLS. Thanks to a lot of investment and high-profile signings, both leagues have improved immensely since their formation, but it is no disrespect to say they have a long way to go before being able to compete with England’s top flight.
Former Valencia, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid striker David Villa is set to accompany Lampard to both clubs, where the three-time La Liga winner will be expected to provide goals at the head of their attacks. Having enjoyed such successful and trophy-laden careers so far, it will be interesting to see how the players react to the pressure of being even biggest stars overseas.