Chris Mueller, who once recorded brace for USMNT, retires

Marking the end of an eventful career, Chicago Fire FC winger Chris Mueller announced his retirement from professional soccer on Friday.

Mueller made an impression in two caps for the U.S. Men's National Team. He recorded a brace in the USMNT's 6-0 win over El Salvador in a friendly in 2020.

Mueller was diagnosed with pericarditis in 2025, which cost him the season. He returned for the Fire in February, making his debut in a preseason friendly against the LA Galaxy. He appeared in five regular-season games with one start.

"Goodbyes are never easy, especially when you're waving farewell to a game you've centered the last 20 years of your life around," Mueller said in a statement provided to the Fire. "With that being said, this has been a decision that hasn't come without real challenge, a hefty amount of consideration, and serious contemplation."

Mueller, 30, is a native of Illinois and joined the Fire in 2022, fulfilling a lifelong dream of suiting up for his childhood club. In 66 appearances over the next five seasons, Mueller tallied six goals and 10 assists.

"Thank you to the Chicago Fire, firstly, for bringing me home and allowing me to play for my childhood club," Mueller said. "And secondly, but more importantly, for their support throughout me battling through this diagnosis. Truly, it was unbelievable and I never felt alone in it.

"I'm beyond excited to see where the Club continues to head and for the victories that are yet to come. Thank you, Chicago. A supporter, I will always be."

Prior to joining Chicago, Mueller had stints with Orlando City (2018-21) and Hibernian F.C. of the Scottish Premiership (2022). His four-year run with Orlando resulted in 21 goals and 24 assists in 112 appearances.

--Field Level Media