Tim Cahill open to MLS offers, rules out A-League return

Kieran Francis

Tim Cahill open to MLS offers, rules out A-League return image

Australian football legend Tim Cahill says he is open to offers to play in the USA, but won't be returning to Australia's A-League.

The 38-year-old made the announcement during his international retirement press conference in Sydney.

Cahill is currently without a club since leaving Championship side Millwall at the conclusion of last season, but said he would be open to offers domestically in the USA - including the MLS and second-tier USL.

"I have heard whispers about [returning to] the A-League," Cahill said.

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"I will be open and honest, my experience was fantastic, my debut [for Melbourne City in 2016] is something I will never forget.

"To live in America and play in the A-League is impossible so respectfully I will draw a line in the sand about me coming home. That should stop any whispers.

"I will go to the UK for my UEFA [coaching] license, then I will open a door for offers to play football, I've not really entertained anyone yet. 

"Domestic, there could be opportunity but I have time to decide."

Tim Cahill Australia Peru

The Sydney-born striker has already enjoyed three-year stint in the MLS with New York Red Bulls - scoring 16 goals in 72 matches.

While another opportunity at an MLS club is unlikely, Cahill could mirror the career path of Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, who has spent the last 15 months playing for USL side Phoenix Rising.

Cahill retires from the Australian national team as their greatest ever goalscorer, with 50 goals from 107 caps including strikes in three World Cups.

He shot to fame in 2004 with Millwall, leading the club to the FA Cup final against Manchester United, before securing a move to Premier League side Everton, where he spent eight seasons.

Kieran Francis

Kieran Francis Photo

Kieran Francis is a senior editor at The Sporting News based in Melbourne, Australia. He started at Sportal.com.au before being a part of the transition to Sporting News in 2015. Just prior to the 2018 World Cup, he was appointed chief editor of Goal.com in Australia. He has now returned to The Sporting News where his passions lay in football, AFL, poker and cricket - when he is not on holiday.