NEW YORK, United States — Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting is set to bring his New York Red Bulls spell to an end when his contract expires on December 31, 2026, with the experienced Cameroon international keen to continue playing and a possible return to the German Bundesliga among his options.
The 37-year-old forward is expected to leave the Major League Soccer club as a free agent in January after the Red Bulls opted not to extend his stay. Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg reported the development, while German broadcaster n-tv reported that Choupo-Moting had confirmed his departure.
Despite approaching the later stages of his career, the striker is not considering retirement at this point. A return to Germany is understood to be a possibility, although no new club has been confirmed and there is no publicly established agreement with a Bundesliga side.
Choupo-Moting’s 2026 MLS Numbers
Choupo-Moting’s 2026 league campaign has produced five goals and one assist in 22 appearances, according to Opta Analyst. The same data records 551 minutes, with the forward starting three matches and coming off the bench in 19.
Those figures point to a reduced role compared with his first season in the United States. In 2025, he scored 17 MLS goals and provided four assists in 33 appearances, establishing himself as a major contributor to the Red Bulls’ attack. His reduced involvement this year has coincided with a difficult campaign for the club, which did not reach the MLS Cup Playoffs.
While five goals in 22 appearances may appear modest beside his previous output, the number of starts and limited minutes provide important context. His experience, physical presence and ability to operate as a central striker or supporting forward could still make him an option for clubs seeking depth and short-term attacking support.
A Bundesliga Return Would Be Familiar Territory
Germany is a natural destination to consider because Choupo-Moting has spent much of his career there. Born in Hamburg, he came through the youth system at Hamburger SV and made his senior breakthrough in German football before representing Mainz 05, Schalke 04 and Bayern Munich.
His most decorated spell came at Bayern, where he won three Bundesliga titles after joining the club in 2020. He also played for Paris Saint-Germain and Stoke City, giving him experience across several major European leagues. The Red Bulls announced his arrival in December 2024 on a contract running through 2026, with a club option for 2027.
A move back to Germany would offer familiarity with the league, its demands and its football culture. However, any potential signing would likely depend on the role a club could offer, the player’s physical condition and whether a team needs an experienced forward for the second half of the season. At 37, regular playing time and a clearly defined role may be more important than the name of the club.
What Comes Next For The Cameroon International?
Choupo-Moting’s departure creates an opportunity for a fresh chapter after two seasons in MLS. His first campaign demonstrated that he could still deliver goals in a new environment, while his second has been more challenging as his involvement decreased.
For interested clubs, the attraction is not limited to his goal record. The former Cameroon international brings a long résumé that includes Bundesliga title-winning experience, appearances for Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, and participation in multiple FIFA World Cups. He can also provide a younger attacking group with experience at the highest level.
Nevertheless, a Bundesliga return remains an option rather than a completed transfer. No destination has been officially announced, and Choupo-Moting’s next move will become clearer as the January transfer window approaches. For now, the confirmed direction is that his New York chapter is coming to an end, but his playing career is not.
Sources And Further Reading
- n-tv / Sky Germany transfer report — departure and possible Bundesliga return.
- Opta Analyst — 2026 MLS appearances, goals, assists and minutes.
- New York Red Bulls — original signing and contract details.
- New York Red Bulls player statistics — club-recorded MLS statistics.
- Sofascore — player profile and contract information.
Photo: Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting in action for the New York Red Bulls in 2025. Photo by Fede130509 / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.