Alfredo Morales signs with Fortuna Düsseldorf

Recently promoted side Fortuna Düsseldorf announced the signing of Alfredo Morales to a three-year contract.

“With Alfredo we have signed an experienced Bundesliga professional,” said manager Friedhelm Funkel (through the magic of Google Translate). “He has shown in more than 150 appearances in the first and second league that he brings quality to the Bundesliga. With his mentality he will help us immediately.”

Düsseldorf finished atop the 2. Bundesliga with 63 points from 34 matches. The North Rhine-Westphalia-based club has bounced around the various tiers of German football, experiencing its eighth promotion or relegation since departing the Bundesliga in 1997. Düsseldorf also features occasional USMNT call-up Jerome Kiesewetter, who made three league appearances last season.

Morales, a 28-year old midfielder, made 142 appearances with FC Ingolstadt from 2013 through 2018. This past season, he played in 27 2. Bundesliga matches, scoring four goals. The German-Peruvian-American began his professional career with Hertha BSC.

Morales is currently in the awkward hinterland that many “no longer young” American players occupy. He’s made 13 appearances for the USMNT, but would be 32-years old at the 2022 World Cup. Should the program move on from him or should a player in one of the world’s top leagues always be welcomed into any camp?

Regardless of how US Soccer proceeds with players like Morales, it’s always enjoyable to see more American players competing in the world’s best leagues.