Speculation has simmered for months regarding the futures of LA Galaxy Designated Players Robbie Keane and Steven Gerrard. Will one or both of the legends retire at season's end, or can the Galaxy keep them in action for at least one more year? Or perhaps a new destination awaits the veterans before they close out their distinguished careers?
With DP slots limited to three per team, their next moves will greatly influence whether the five-time MLS Cup champions seek another marquee signing this winter.
Speaking to fans and media at a Galaxy season-ticket member event on Thursday night, LA coach and general manager Bruce Arena confirmed that Keane and Gerrard are out of contract after this season, but maintained that all parties are sticking to a wait-and-see attitude.
“We return one of our DPs in Giovani dos Santos, who is under contract for a number of years,” Arena said when asked about LA's 2017 DP plans. “Robbie Keane and Steven Gerrard are out of contract at the end of the year, and we’re going to sit down with them and make decisions from that.”
The Galaxy are known for courting globally-recognized stars, and Arena hinted that all three DP berths will be put to use one way or another next season.
“If we have any available spots,” he added, “we’re certainly going to be aggressive."
