Soccer

Steven Gerrard confirms end of LA Galaxy stay

‘I can look back at my time at the club with pride at what we accomplished,’ he said

Steven Gerrard has left Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy, the club confirmed. Photograph: Frederic J Brown/AFP/Getty Images
Steven Gerrard has left Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy, the club confirmed. Photograph: Frederic J Brown/AFP/Getty Images
Tue Nov 15 2016 - 17:14

Steven Gerrard admits his Los Angeles Galaxy career has left him with mixed emotions after the club confirmed he would not be offered a new contract.

The midfielder’s 18-month deal with the Major League Soccer side came to an end following their elimination from the post-season playoffs.

Gerrard scored five goals in 34 appearances but generally his time in California has not been viewed as particularly successful and the 36-year-old tends to agree.

“When I left Liverpool, I came to Los Angeles with the goal of helping the Galaxy lift another MLS Cup,” he said.

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“I am of course disappointed to have not achieved that objective but I can look back at my time at the club with pride at what we accomplished, including two straight playoff appearances and countless memorable moments on the pitch.

“As someone who spent the whole of their career in Liverpool, it has been an incredible experience to come to Los Angeles and play for the LA Galaxy.

"I would like to thank Mr Anschutz, Dan Beckerman, Chris Klein and Bruce Arena for this opportunity.

“I would also like to thank my team-mates, the coaching staff, all of the support staff and most importantly the fans for their fantastic support during my time at Galaxy; I am excited to see this league and this great club continue to grow.

“I am now looking forward to spending time with my family as I consider the next stage of my career.”

Coach Bruce Arena paid tribute to Gerrard’s spell at the club.

“We were honoured to have a player and person of Steven’s calibre represent the LA Galaxy over the past two seasons,” he said.

“His experience, class and leadership made him a valuable member of this team both on and off the field.

"I will always remember his last kick for the LA Galaxy as he smashed home his penalty against Tim Howard.

“We thank Steven for his time and contributions to this club and we wish him the best in whatever comes next.

“He is one of the most iconic players of all-time and he will always be a part of the LA Galaxy family.”

Gerrard has been linked with a move to join up with former manager Brendan Rodgers at Celtic but sources at the Scottish champions have played down any move for the 36-year-old.

Former Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane is also out of contract at the California club and found himself on the substitutes bench towards the end of an injury affected season.

The 36-year-old Dubliner intends to stay in Major League Soccer even if it is not with the Galaxy.