Steven Gerrard on move to L.A. Galaxy: 'I'm not going for a holiday'
Steven Gerrard isn't heading to California with any intention of visiting Disneyland.
Ahead of the L.A. Galaxy's announcement that Gerrard will join the club during Major League Soccer's summer transfer window, the former England captain spoke openly about his impending departure from Liverpool in an exclusive with the Galaxy's official website.
While his words featured the usual sentiments expressed by a player about to embark on a new challenge, it sounds like Gerrard is genuinely looking forward to the next chapter of his career.
"Their pursuit of me was very aggressive," said Gerrard, as transcribed by James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo.
"The talks I've had with them have been very positive. They basically told me what I wanted to hear – they told me about the winning mentality at the club and about their aims and goals for the future. It's perfect timing for this new challenge in my life. I am really excited and looking forward to it.
"I'll be moving to the most successful team over in the U.S. I've watched a lot of their games and I know some of the players who have been there and sampled it. I've heard great things about it. Having spoken to manager Bruce Arena and the people above him, I know they want success and that's what I want. That's how I want to finish my career.
"I'd like to think I've got the same attitude as the people who made this signing happen – the manager, CEO and owner. It seems to me like they are winners and that's how I see myself. I think it's a match made in heaven."
Gerrard also stressed that he'll join the Galaxy with the same work rate that has allowed him to claim one Champions League title (2005), one UEFA Cup title (2001), two FA Cup titles (2001, 2006) and three League Cup titles (2001, 2003, 2012) with Liverpool.
"I can guarantee I'll go there, work hard, give 100 percent every day and make sacrifices and be dedicated to performing at a consistent level.
"Football is my life and it will continue to be so for another couple of years. I'm not going for a holiday or to enjoy myself, I'm going to win. I want to play my part and contribute to help bring some silverware to this team. I know I can perform well for the next couple of years."
MLS's summer transfer window opens on July 9, meaning Gerrard will be eligible to make his debut on July 17, when the Galaxy host the San Jose Earthquakes.