Steven Gerrard has left LA Galaxy.
The Liverpool legend joined the MLS franchise from his hometown club at the end of the 2014/2015 Premier League season, but failed to win any silverware in the United States.
The 36-year-old’s last game for Galaxy came earlier this month, when the team lost on penalties to Colorado Rapids in the MLS Playoffs.
Gerrard, who admitted the league was tougher than he expected it would be before moving to Los Angeles, announced his departure on his Instagram page.
He has been linked with moves to Celtic and Newcastle United, but says he wants to take some time before deciding his next career move.
Gerrard wrote:
‘When I left Liverpool, I came to Los Angeles with the goal of helping the Galaxy lift another MLS Cup, 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 teammates, 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.’
Gerrard’s former teammate Robbie Keane faces an uncertain future at the franchise. The Republic of Ireland’s record goalscorer has been with Galaxy since 2011 and has won three MLS Cups with the franchise.
He’s arguably the most successful Designated Player in the history of the league, but his contract is set to expire and there’s no word yet on whether he will be remaining in LA.
Keane made no mention of his own situation when posting to Facebook this evening, choosing instead to pay tribute to his “friend for life” Gerrard.
The pair played together for a few months at Liverpool during the 2008/09 season, and again at Galaxy over the past 18-months, and it’s obvious Keane has a lot of respect for his former teammate.
Keane wrote:
‘It’s been an absolute pleasure playing with Steven Gerrard at LA Galaxy, one of the best midfielders of our generation. Top professional, top lad. Made a friend for life best of luck on your next chapter pal.’
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