Mexican teams decided to go all the way with their signings this winter, and even though some of them brought attention due to their skills, this one is by far the most controversial signing in Liga MX history.
Landon Donovan, the man who repeatedly slammed El Tri when playing for the USMNT, including that 2002 World Cup elimination, will step out of retirement to join Club León, the last team to win back-to-back titles in Liga MX.
Rumors emerged earlier this week about Donovan's arrival to "La Fiera", but some former footballers dismissed those claims. Last night, Donovan replied to a tweet by León's owner, and revealed that he would end his 9-month retirement to play for the Mexican squad.
"Mister president: I loved the city. You guys have the best fans in Mexico. Club León is a historical, winning side. I don't believe in walls, I want to go to Mexico, dress up in green and win trophies with León. See you soon!"
Presidente: me encantó la Ciudad. Es la mejor afición. @clubleonfc es un equipo histórico y ganador. No creo en los muros, quiero ir a México, vestirme de verde y ganar trofeos con León. Nos vemos muy pronto! https://t.co/Xqm4jX2hW7
— Landon Donovan (@landondonovan) January 13, 2018
Donovan is a four-time CONCACAF Gold Cup winner with the USMNT, and has scored 186 goals in 485 matches for his clubs. Added to that, he is the USMNT's joint all-time top scorer along with former team-mate Clint Dempsey.
Earlier today, Donovan went on to celebrate his return to competitive football with another tweet.
The brave don’t live forever but the cautious do not live at all. I’m excited for this new adventure
— Landon Donovan (@landondonovan) January 13, 2018