Former Chicago Fire midfielder Marco Pappa had his official debut with SC Heerenveen and has provided the media with his reaction. Pappa signed with the team earlier this year and played for 77 minutes in his first match. Although the game with FC Groningen ended with a draw of 1-1, he has admitted that jet lag had an impact on his performance, so he is not thrilled with the results.
Marco Pappa and SC Heerenveen
After the Aug. 30 announcement about his departure from the Chicago Fire, Marco Pappa has spent his time adjusting to the new team. His immediate transfer to SC Heerenveen was an unexpected move for fans because previous reports indicated that he would finish the MLS season and join the Dutch club in Jan. 2013. Instead, the Chicago Fire have made changes to deal with his absence while Marco Pappa finally had his debut with Heerenveen this week.
In a video interview for SC Heerenveen's website, Marco Pappa revealed that he was not completely thrilled with his performance at the recent game with FC Groningen. He admitted that jet lag played a role, but he still hopes to join the first team soon as he continues training. His previous comments indicate that playing in Europe has fulfilled one of his dreams, "Es un sueño el estar acá en Europa. [It's a dream to be here in Europe.]"
SC Heerenveen Gives Marco Pappa a Bike
To celebrate the arrival of the midfielder, the SC Heerenveen supporters' group gave Marco Pappa a bike in Sept. because he had expressed an interest in biking in the city. The gift was decorated with the team's colors and stickers. Pappa seems to have been accepted instantly by the fans and supporters of SC Heerenveen.
Chicago Fire fans may want to continue to follow Marco Pappa's progress in Europe. He may not have any desire to return to MLS at this point, but he may eventually find his way back to the United States. It would not be the first time that a former player has returned to Major League Soccer after spending time in Europe.
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Lana follows MLS, UEFA and FIFA. She has been a faithful fan of the Chicago Fire since 1998. Follow @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.
