Robbie Keane to leave LA Galaxy after incredible tenure
Robbie Keane, one of Major League Soccer's best ever imports, will end his fantastic run in an LA Galaxy shirt, leaving the club after his contract expires at the end of the year.
The 36-year-old former Republic of Ireland international departs after leading the LA Galaxy to three MLS Cup victories, scoring 92 goals, providing 51 assists in his time at the club, including 26 game-winning goals, 18 game-winning assists, 21 multi-goal games and four hat tricks during his five years at the club.
The Irish striker penned a passionate open letter to supporters of the club, and hinted that his time in the game isn't over just yet:
Head Coach and General Manager Bruce Arena spoke glowingly of his frontman, praising his longtime charge: “It is hard to put into words what Robbie Keane has meant to the LA Galaxy. From day one, Keane has given everything to this team both on and off the field and has led our club to some of its greatest accomplishments. His resume and accomplishments speak for themselves; he has been the most successful international signing in this league’s history. We thank Robbie for everything he has given to this club and this city and we wish him the best in whatever comes next in his career.”
Although his departure is a ways off, the Galaxy will surely be looking to replace their talisman as soon as possible with a big-name player to fill the marketing and on-pitch void. Could that mean Wayne Rooney next January?
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BREAKING: Robbie Keane to depart from #LAGalaxy at end of year: https://t.co/G85RBAg6KJ #ThankYouKeano pic.twitter.com/OjPdyrcB6f
— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) November 17, 2016
[pullquote align="center" attribution=""]I can confirm that after five fantastic years I will be leaving the LA Galaxy. It's been a privilege to have played my part in the history of such a great club and I leave with memories that will stay with me forever. Winning three MLS Cups, scoring over 100 goals for the club and being named as 2014 MVP are all achievements that I will look back on with pride, it's been an incredible experience, I've truly loved every minute of my time at LA Galaxy.However, I believe that now is the right time for a new challenge as I look towards the next chapter of my playing career. I still feel as fit and sharp as ever and I am looking forward to my next adventure. Having now retired from international football I am ready to focus everything I have on one last major challenge in club football and will be taking time out to consider my options before announcing my next move.[/pullquote]
