Steven Gerrard is set to confirm a move to LA Galaxy following the announcement that he will be leaving his beloved Liverpool at the end of the season earlier in the week.
The former England captain also revealed that he would be moving to the MLS. Speculation hinted at a straight race between the current MLS cup holders, LA Galaxy and New York City for his signature. LA Galaxy are favourites however and would offer Gerrard the opportunity to retreat to one of the world’s most glamour pus destinations with his family in the twilight years of his career.
The timing could be perfect as the franchise are in need of a new star name following the retirement of Landon Donavon at the end of the last league season. The Liverpool captain would certainly be a worthy replacement for arguably the Galaxy’s greatest very player.
LA Galaxy have previous experience in signing big name English stars after their purchase of David Beckham from Real Madrid in 2007. Golden balls was an unqualified success, playing an influential role in the multiple trophy laden seasons and helping the growth of ‘soccer’ in the States immensely with Brand Beckham. If Gerrard enjoys anything like his success the move will be a great for both parties.
However unlike Beckham, Gerrard isn’t a big celebrity style figure and has no plans to be one either. Commercially he isn’t on the same level as Becks and won’t be able to be sold to the general public in anything like the same way. The Scouser has no intentions to appear in TV adverts or have his face plastered on billboards. He is just a real professional who will put his head down, working quietly and efficiently. Also his strong Liverpudlian accent will be somewhat of a problem. He will most likely face greater troubles getting the locals to understand a word he is saying than performing on the pitch.
Although a name such as his would sell shirts on it’s own without a lot of branding. The USA is home to many Liverpool fans and the potential signing of the iconic Gerrard would improve the clubs fan base vastly. When an opportunity comes along for any MLS side to sign a player of his quality, they don’t turn it for possible commercial mishaps which most likely won’t be a big problem.
Los Angeles would be the perfect destination for Gerrard who is reaching the back end of his career. One final big pay day and a fantastic lifestyle in the home of the rich and famous should be more than enough to persuade him to make the move.
Having seemingly failed to get Frank Lampard on US turf, New York City will possibly be looking for a new superstar to turn out for them but financial problems and Gerrard’s high wage demand will ensure that any move there will be a no go. Also Galaxy currently hold a better standing in American soccer as the league’s stand-out team for the past few years. In addition, New York Red Bulls face a similar story to City in their desire to replace the retiring Thierry Henry but can’t afford any potential deal.
Gerrard has confirmed a decision will be made soon as he looks to get his future sorted and focus on his final season at Liverpool. A deal is not yet completed but their is certainly strong interest from both sides so expect Steven Gerrard to rock up in LA for the next stage of his outstanding career.