“After a 14-year career in Germany, I am very excited to take a new step in my life,” said Schäfer. “It will be a great experience for me and my family. I am very excited to join the Rowdies and take on a new challenge in my playing career. I love to work hard, with the goal of winning games and being successful. The Tampa Bay Rowdies is a great project, and it is an honor to be a part of this club.”

Prior to his decade with Wolfsburg, Schäfer only played for one other club at the senior level, TSV 1860 Munich from 2003-2007.

“We’re delighted to bring in a player of Marcel’s caliber and expertise to our squad,” Rowdies Head Coach Stuart Campbell said. “His career speaks for itself. He’s played at a high level for a long time and we think he’ll adapt to our club and our league pretty quickly.”

Primarily a left back at Wolfsburg, Schäfer is expected to compete for a spot in the midfield with the Rowdies.