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AP
Germany's Shkodran Mustafi
BERLIN >> American forward Bobby Wood joined Union Berlin from German second division rival 1860 Munich on Monday.
The 22-year-old agreed to a deal through June 2018, Union said on its website.
“I’m happy the transfer worked out, and all sides all clear. I had very good discussions with those in charge and quickly realized that Union could be the right address for me. It’s a special club with big ambitions, and I want to show what I’ve got here,” Wood said. “Now it’s about getting to know everyone quickly and finding my place in the team.”
Born in Hawaii, Wood moved to California to play youth soccer with the Irvine Strikers, then relocated to Germany in 2007 to join 1860 Munich.
Wood made his debut with 1860’s senior team in January 2011 against MSV Duisburg, but his career was slowed that spring when he injured a knee while with the U.S. under-20 team. He spent the second half of last season on loan to Erzgebirge Aue, which was relegated to the third division.
Wood has scored six goals and set up six more in 59 German second division games.
He has two goals in eight appearances for the U.S., including decisive late goals in exhibition wins last month at the Netherlands and Germany.
“We’re happy to have Bobby Wood among our ranks straightaway,” Union coach Norbert Duewel said. “In him we’re getting a very fast and robust forward who plays the for team, as well as being dangerous in front of goal. He brings second division experience and also recently showed his class with the national team.”
Duewel added, “Bobby is on a very good path in his development, which he can now carry through with us.”
