After weeks of speculation about the future of America's most popular soccer player, the contract has been signed. Rumors of a full move to Mexico or England turned out to be just that, rumors, well not exactly. On Wednesday, January 16th, Landon Donovan signed a 4-year deal with the LA Galaxy to keep the US National team striker in the MLS until 2013. This past season was on of Landon's best in the MLS - Player of the Year, 12 goals, and made it to the MLS Cup.
However, the other big news coming out of this press release was that Landon would have the option to go out on loan each MLS off-season. This was following rumors of a move to Everton in the EPL. While the loan deal has not been finalized, most speculate that Donovan will join Everton from Jan 1st to March 15th to team up the US National goal keeper Tim Howard. The loan would end in time for Landon to return to the LA Galaxy for the start of the 2010 MLS season against the New England Revolution.
I believe this move will be beneficial for Donovan. Everton is a smaller team that has had several injuries this season, including up top, so his chances of get play time are increased here. Having friend Tim Howard on the team will help him adjust to life in England and the style of play in the EPL. Additionally, after Donovan went on a similar short-loan to Bayern Munich last off-season it improved his game and he returned to the MLS stronger and more focused.
Another interesting news story which came out the day after the press release was that Landon was close to signing a loan deal with Mexican side Club America. Mexico has a more similar playing style to the MLS than the EPL and he would be closer to home and the national team. However, in the end Donovan stated that the challenge of playing in England and being on the same team with Tim Howard was too good to pass up.
What are you thoughts on Donovan's move? How will he do in the EPL?
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