Landon Donovan explains why he’s decided to come out of retirement

It’s officially official. What started as a crazy internet rumor has transformed into Landon Donovan officially announcing that he’s coming out of retirement to play the rest of the 2016 MLS season with the LA Galaxy.

The United States men’s national team’s all-time leading scorer penned an explanation and posted it on his Facebook page on Thursday evening.

Landon explains the scenario of seeing three Galaxy players get hurt in one game and then losing Nigel de Jong to Turkey. He remembers a playful joke some Galaxy players had about asking him if he could comeback.

“Over the ensuing days, I began to think about their inquiries and it struck me that perhaps this is something I should consider. I care so deeply about the Galaxy organization, and I believe I could help in a small way to aid the team in its quest for a 6th MLS championship. Further, the opportunity to have my son Talon on the field with me after a game was a feeling that I would never be able to replicate.”

The feeling of wanting to play the sport that consumed much of his life again overwhelmed him enough to the point of talking about a serious comeback with Bruce Arena, a man who has been very influential in his career both at the club and international levels.

Finally, he decided to come back for the rest of this season. However, he knows that everyone won’t be overjoyed about his decision, much like opinion has been split on his entire career.

“I know this won’t be received well by everyone. That’s ok. I’ve always made decisions in life based on two guiding principles: my own happiness and the happiness of those I love and care about. Being on the field again, being able to help an organization that has meant so much to me and having my son in my arms after a game will undoubtedly make me and all my loved ones happy. That’s all that matters.”

Those who have enjoyed watching Landon his entire career will obviously be excited to see him play once again, while the opposite is true for those who may have soured on him. Nevertheless, perhaps the greatest American soccer player of all-time is back and will be playing competitive soccer once again.

He closed his detailed explanation with a heartfelt message to all of his fans:

“I thank you all for your unwavering support. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate each and every one of you. I’ve been fortunate to lead an incredible life, and I can’t wait to be on the field again and hear your cheers. Also, as all you parents know, having a child is truly a life-changing experience. Nothing would make me happier than standing on the field with Talon and the rest of my family celebrating the Galaxy’s 6th championship on December 10th. I will do everything in my power to make that happen, and I hope we are all there celebrating together!”

The Galaxy have since confirmed the move with this interesting video that reveals that the perennial No. 10 will be wearing No. 26 (Giovani dos Santos currently occupies the 10 shirt) in his return.