In soccer, every young player dreamed of playing in the biggest clubs of Europe: Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Manchester United, Juventus, Milan, among others.
On today’s transfer markets, these types of clubs target young players who aren’t old enough to drink in some places in the USA.
That’s why you see footballers from the MLS, Argentina, or Brazil going to play in Spain or England at 17 or 18 years old.
This was the case for USMNT legend Landon Donovan, who left for Germany at just 17 years old.
However, in a recent interview for The Man On Show, Donovan discussed his struggles and the real reason why he never pursued a long-term career in Europe.
Why Landon Donovan Chose MLS over a permanent move to Europe
The scenario of playing in Europe from a young age is beautiful, but there are many things that one will understand about the loneliness and the depression some players have. Because you are too young in a different country all by yourself, it’s not easy for some people.
The LA Galaxy legend moved to Bayern Leverkusen at 17 years old. In a recent interview in the aforementioned outlet, Donovan discussed his struggles and how staying in the MLS might have been a better choice.
“So I took that leap young, at 17. I moved to Germany by myself, and a lot of times I think if I had started in MLS, gotten better, developed, grown, I might have ended up in Europe my whole career.” Adding: “But because my first two years were tough, difficult at times, miserable, depressing. I didn't want to feel that again, so that was a little bit of the reasoning.”
The former Bayern Munich striker explained that he should have established himself in MLS first before leaping abroad.
As an example, he said that if he were still playing today, he would most likely suit up for San Diego FC, where he currently lives, or for the LA Galaxy, but never for LAFC.
With that, Donovan said he returned to the US to be at peace with himself. To be happy again playing soccer, and be closer to his family.
“In my case, I was happy. I was at peace. I was with my family. I saw the sun every day. I was still making a good living, and so I didn't feel the need to see if the grass was greener. I was really happy.”
So, yes, the jump to playing in Europe is wonderful, but it is also a dark place that not everyone can handle.
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