The Los Angeles Galaxy won the MLS Cup last season to take home back-to-back championships, but to repeat again in 2013, the team will need Landon Donovan back.
According to ESPN.com, Los Angeles Galaxy manager Bruce Arena said that the star midfielder would "definitely" return to the team this season, although it is still unclear when that will be.
"We've given [Donovan] a little more time off," Arena said to ESPN.com. "He's definitely playing this year. We're just working out the return date that makes sense for all of us."
The Galaxy had their first day of preseason practices, but Donovan was absent along with Robbie Keane, who is back in London training with EPL side Tottenham Hotspur, as well as Todd Dunivant, who was still on his honeymoon after getting married. Arena said that Dunivant is expected to report Tuesday.
Keane was the MVP with the team last season and scored 23 goals in all competitions, including a penalty kick in stoppage time during the MLS Cup. He netted 18 goals in 32 regular-season games and scored in each of the final four games of the playoffs. Last week the Galaxy signed Keane to a multiyear extension.
Donovan stated after last season that there was a possibility he may retire or take a long break from soccer, but Arena said that he will return to the Galaxy this season.
"Your body's going to tell you it's time to take a break and that's what my body is telling me this year, there's no question," Donovan said after last season.
"[Donovan] has had a couple of years that have taken its toll," Arena said. "He needs a little bit more time."
Arena did not know a timetable for Donovan's return, but that there was more than enough time to get back before the season begins.
"Everyone is a little different," Arena said. "The older players, they prefer less time because it wears them down. The younger players can deal with the grind a little bit better. But generally we'd like to see players get three to four weeks in before they're ready to play. Then you need some real competitive matches to bring your fitness along."
Donovan was key to the Galaxy's run to the championship last season, scoring 11 goals in 30 games while also adding 16 assists. David Beckham is no longer with the team, so the Galaxy will lean heavily on Donovan when he returns.
The Galaxy will open their regular season at home against the Chicago Fire.
