Former LA Galaxy and Ireland striker Robbie Keane decided to retire from playing professional soccer after 23 years. Keane, who stands as one of the most prolific strikers in MLS history, announced his retirement decision on Wednesday.
The 38-year-old, who last played for the Indian Super League team ATK, won’t completely walk away from soccer, however, and will join the Ireland men’s national team’s coaching staff.
“From Crumlin United around the world to the likes of Milan, London, and Los Angeles, I could never have imagined the path my football life would take. It has exceeded all the hopes I had as a football-mad boy growing up in Dublin,” – said Keane in a statement. “Leaving home at 15 years of age to pursue my professional career in England seems a lifetime ago now. I was a street footballer full of hope armed with huge ambitions and a determination to succeed. All I needed was that one chance.”
Robbie Keane played for a number of successful European clubs, but he left the biggest mark with Tottenham Hotspurs, where he scored 122 goals in 306 matches. Keane decided to come to MLS in 2011, joining the LA Galaxy and quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s biggest stars.
During his six seasons in Los Angeles, Keane played a total of 165 games and scored an astonishing number of 104 goals. He also helped the team to win three MLS Cups and Supporters’ Shield trophy.
