CARSON, Calif. – Gyasi Zardes says he was never really close to heading to Europe during the summer transfer window and that he's not thinking about a move overseas during the offseason.
But the LA Galaxy standout, who became a regular this year with the US national team, isn't going to count anything out.
“There's so many rumors out there,” Zardes said. “There's so many other people out there [saying], 'Hey, this team is interested in you,' and I'm just, like, that's not my focus. I'm an LA Galaxy player and this is my primary focus and this is my job, this is my team, these are my coaches, and today – right now, this moment – is the only moment that matters.
“Anything can happen once I walk out those doors [away from StubHub Center], but this [right now] matters, you know?”
Zardes said he never considered offers in July and August to move elsewhere.
“I don't think I ever was leaving, you know?” he said. “I really don't recall looking at any offers, because that was a tough period [during the summer months]. Because that was the Gold Cup.”
Zardes attracted reported interest from several foreign sides – sources confirmed to MLSsoccer.com that Belgium's Genk and England's Reading were pursuing the 24-year-old attacker– and there's bound to be further interest going forward.
He's a natural forward with all the physical tools -- speed, skill, size and strength -- and he scored 17 league goals, playoffs included, to help LA's run to the 2014 MLS Cup title.
Zardes had played a lot on the left wing as a rookie in 2013, blossomed up top last year, and this season provided some timely lessons as he grew as a wide player. US national team manager Jurgen Klinsmann, too, usually employed him on the flank.
“I'm the type of player, if the coach needs me to play a specific position, I want to learn and master it and try to be the best I can at it,” he said. “I played winger a lot this year but also have some skills up top. ... That's the thing I'm working on, just trying to be as consistent as I can be.”
His production was down in 2015, in part because of the change in position – he had six goals and four assists in 29 MLS games – but he advanced as a defensive player.
“I really tried to stay engaged and listen to what my teammates, the veteran guys, have to say about defending. And also the coaches. They've helped me a ton,” Zardes said. “When they put me out there [on the flank], they knew attacking wasn't going to be a problem, but the defensive aspect, they spent time with me, and I really appreciate all the help they've given me.”
Zardes was asked if he anticipated that he'd be with the Galaxy next season.
“I still have two more years here on my contract,” he said, “but I'm just going to take it day by day and work extremely hard, because I don't know what tomorrow holds.”
He says he's unaware of foreign interest.
“That's the thing,” he said. “So far I haven't heard anything, but, I mean, hey, I take it day by day. I'm in God's hands.”
