As the January transfer window opens up, several big-time MLS players are heading back to Europe. Rumors abound concerning big-time European superstars possibly heading to the MLS. Will any come to fruition? It will be interesting to see. Here are some of the biggest confirmed moves as well as a few rumors:
Landon Donovan Returns to Everton on 2-Month Loan: Donovan was brilliant in his first loan stint at Goodison Park two years ago, and he feels he is an even better player this time around. The fact that he will know the ins and outs of European football and the Everton culture will help him again quickly adjust to the Toffees and make a big contribution to the side. However, it will be exceedingly difficult for him to have as big of an impact as he did last time due to the simple fact that he played out of his mind two years ago. Also, he is a little bit older, so although he may be wiser, he has lost a tiny bit of his speed. Even so, I really hope Landon lights it up again and proves that the best in the MLS can make it in the EPL.
Theirry Henry Heads Back to Arsenal for 2 Months: Henry will head back to the club were he became a legend under the guidance of Arsene Wenger, this time for a two month loan while Gervinho and Chamakh are away for the African Cup of Nations. Wenger and Henry himself both realize that Henry has lost much of the speed that made him arguably the best striker in the world in his prime, but he still has strength and smarts. Wenger seems like he certainly won't overuse the French frontman, hinting that a "super-sub" role might be the way Henry will be utilized. Even if he only musters a few goals, Henry will be received as a hero at the Emirates, which should be exciting to see.
Rumor: Beckham Urging Lampard to Join Galaxy?: Rumors have been swirling that Beckham has been telling Frank Lampard, who is out of favor at Chelsea under Andre Villas-Boas, that he would love life in LA. Lampard still seems to have something left in the tank and likely will not want to admit to entering the twilight of his career by joining a perceived-lowly MLS side. When Robbie Keane joined LA, he was ridiculed by the European media, and Lampard is probably considered an even bigger and better star. Moreover, with Euro 2012 coming up this summer, a move to LA would almost certainly guarantee Lampard will not be in Fabio Capello's plans for the tournament. Therefore, Lampard moving to LA is unlikely for now, but in the future it very well could happen.
Rumor: Drogba to LA?: Drogba has been used much more consistently than Frank Lampard under Andre Villas-Boas, so judging by playing time alone a move away from Chelsea doesn't make sense. However, when you consider that Chelsea have offered the Ivorian striker only a one-year contract extension, a move to an MLS side (such as LA) where a long-term, well-paying contract would be available for Drogba, suddenly sounds a lot more appealing.
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Sources:
http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/blog/_/name/young_mark/id/7403688/galaxy-deal-didier-drogba
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/7401399/Wenger-confirms-Henry-return
