Clint Dempsey's Dilemna: "Should I Stay Or Should I Go?" - Opinion

Clint Dempsey played very well in the recent World Cup for the United States. Since the U.S. were knocked out of the competition I have read speculation regarding Dempsey's future. I was expecting the rumors to begin immediately. Dempey's agent has been quoted about interest from other clubs in Europe. I wrote about this on July 5th. In my post I also mention that Clint is receiving interest from AC Milan.

If this speculation is true than Clint Dempsey might have a decision to make. Over the past week I have given some thought to this subject. Clint Dempsey has a dilemna on his hands. Will he stay at Fulham or move on to another club in Europe?

This situation is difficult for me to break down. I was drawn to Fulham once Clint came to the team. I have been following the Cottagers ever since. Whether he stays or goes will not change my passion for Fulham. However, I personally hope he stays with the club.

So I am going to try to look at this dilemna objectively. What should Clint Dempsey do? Should he stay or should he go?

 I will first list reasons for staying at Fulham.  First, he was a part of a club that just went to the Europa League Finals. Barring many changes he should be playing with that same core of players from last season. He is familiar with his team-mates and that comfort could be a reason to stay.

Second, the club will attempt this season to build on what they just accomplished. Fulham have come so far in such a short period of time. He might want to stay with the club to help them try to get back to the Europa League and beyond.

Third, at Fulham he would be considered one of their high profile players. Players like Bobby Zamora, Brede Hangeland, and himself could be considered the future leaders of the club. He would be a big fish in a small pond.

Fourth, he would still be living in London and speaking English. London is one of Europe's greatest cities. He has now been there for several years.  If he goes to a club in another country he probably will have to learn another language. The transition might take longer than when he first made the move to Fulham.

Now, I will list reasons for going to another club. First, this could be his last chance to play at a big club in Europe. He is 27 years old and in the prime of his career. After a great World Cup his stock will probably not get much higher. He might feel this his best chance to play with a club like AC Milan.

Second, he might think that Fulham have gone as far they could. I disagree with that reason, but he might be considering that thought. Dempsey might think Fulham cannot progress back to a Europa League spot in the EPL. Fulham would have to end the season seventh to possibly get into the Europa League next season.

Third, he might have the opportunity to go to a team that is going to be playing European football this season. He saw how great the Europa League was for Fulham last season, and might want to go to a team that can offer him that now.

Fourth, he could be offered much more money to play at a bigger club in Europe. Fulham might not be able to offer him the type of money that an AC Milan could give him.

There are many reasons on both sides of this dilemna for Clint Dempsey. If I was him, I would ponder these reasons and think about where I want to be. I don't think this is an easy decision to make. I have a feeling I will be seeing more speculation soon about Clint's future. I hope he stays and helps Fulham build off of last season. If he goes I will understand and wish him well. So the ball is in the court of Clint Dempsey. He needs to ask himself this one question. Should I stay or should I go?