LA Galaxy’s Landon Donovan to retire

LA Galaxy striker Landon Donovan has announced he will retire at the season's end. Picture: AP

The 32-year-old LA Galaxy forward is the top goalscorer in MLS history and a five-time league champion.

“I feel incredibly blessed and lucky to have played a role in the remarkable growth of MLS and US Soccer during my playing career,” Donovan said in a statement on his Facebook page. “And while my career as a player will soon be over, rest assured I will stay connected on many levels to the beautiful game.”

Donovan was named the most valuable player of his 14th MLS All-Star game on Wednesday night in Portland, scoring a goal in the All-Stars’ 2-1 win over Bayern Munich.

He has played for the Galaxy since 2005, also going on loan to Everton and Bayern Munich during the Galaxy’s offseason. Donovan struggled early in his pro career with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, but was popular during his two stints with the Premier League club.

“Congratulations on a great career to @landondonovan as he announces he’ll retire later this year. Part of EFC fabric,” Everton tweeted from its official account.

A five-time MLS champion with the Galaxy and the San Jose Earthquakes, Donovan agreed to a multi-year contract extension with the Galaxy just a year ago, pronouncing himself revitalised after an extended sabbatical. He took several months off after winning the Galaxy’s second straight MLS Cup title alongside the now-retired David Beckham in December 2012.

“After spending half my life as a professional soccer player, I also am excited to begin a new chapter and pursue other opportunities that will challenge me and allow me to grow as a person,” Donovan said.

Donovan played in the three World Cups from 2002-2010, but failed to make the squad for Brazil.