“Not Everyone Can Survive in the MLS”- Joseph Paintsil
LA Galaxy forward and Black Stars star Joseph Paintsil has pushed back against the perception that Major League Soccer (MLS) is merely a “retirement league,” emphasizing the competitive nature of the league and its unique challenges.
Speaking in an interview following his successful debut season in the MLS, Paintsil highlighted how some European players struggle to adapt to the demands of the league.
“People say it’s a retirement league, but trust me, a lot of Europeans can go there and flop in the first season,” the 26-year-old stated. “So it’s not a league that should be taken for granted.”
Paintsil joined the LA Galaxy from Belgian Pro League side KRC Genk and has quickly made his mark, playing a pivotal role in helping the team secure the MLS Cup.
Reflecting on his experience, he acknowledged that the MLS has been an eye-opener for him and is far more competitive than many assume.
“The MLS is really serious about making an impact in the world,” Paintsil added, citing the arrival of global icons such as Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Olivier Giroud as evidence of the league’s growing stature.
Paintsil’s remarks serve as a reminder that the MLS is evolving rapidly, attracting high-caliber players while maintaining a level of competition that can challenge even seasoned professionals from Europe.