Landon Donovan’s return is bad for MLS

Tarnishing his own legacy

On the topic of sentiment, few would question that Donovan is the most celebrated soccer player in U.S. history.

His value to MLS went beyond the on-field accomplishments (six MLS Cups). The best American player in the history of the game, he made the choice to remain in MLS and has helped increase the popularity of the league as a result.

It was the sort of validation the league could not find anywhere else. Donovan was criticized for his trips to Germany, he was tempted to become a fixture in the Premier League after a successful stint with Everton, but instead remained in MLS, showing that its product was capable of producing legitimate products capable of impressing on the international stage.

Donovan’s decision to play in MLS “put us on the map and established our league as a real strong alternative to playing abroad,” MLS commissioner Don Garber told the L.A. Times last year. “We will forever remember the role that he played in establishing us as a global player in the soccer business. His legacy will forever be etched in our league’s history.”

A legacy that could be needlessly damaged if Donovan comes back and, as expected, isn’t able to recreate his old form.

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