The American forward who traded a Major League Soccer draft for European trials
In short: In 2009, Mike Grella faced a career-defining choice: sign with Toronto FC in the MLS SuperDraft or pursue his ambitions in England. His decision set off a decade of nomadic football, spanning the English Championship, the Danish Superliga, and a record-breaking stint in the United States.
Born in Glen Cove, New York, Grella emerged as a standout talent, earning National High School Player of the Year honors in 2004. Following his 2008 first-team All-American honours at Duke University, he declined Toronto FC's third-round 2009 MLS SuperDraft pick to pursue a European career.
His time in England was marked by significant moments at Leeds United. After signing on transfer deadline day in February 2009, he scored his first league goal against Stockport County in September 2009. While he contributed to Leeds' promotion as League One runners-up, he often found himself in a supporting role behind the prolific partnership of Jermaine Beckford and Luciano Becchio.
Grella's career became a series of transitions, including loan spells at Carlisle United, Swindon Town, and Brentford, as well as stints with Bury and Scunthorpe United. He eventually returned to North America, playing for the Carolina RailHawks before joining the New York Red Bulls in 2015. It was in New York that he achieved legendary status, scoring the fastest goal in MLS history—just seven seconds into a match against Philadelphia Union on October 18, 2015.
Known to fans as 'Grelladinho' for his skillful dribbling, Grella's journey also saw him play in the Danish Superliga for Viborg FF and represent the United States at the U-18 and U-20 levels. Today, he has transitioned from the pitch to the broadcast booth, serving as a Serie A analyst.
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