Landon Donovan says World Cup snub played no role in retirement

Landon Donovan's decision to retire after the season had nothing to do with being left off of the United States World Cup roster. And he definitely doesn't think he should have been left off the roster either.

"I certainly wasn't going to let one person's poor decision this summer affect my decision," Donovan said to the press.

He was, of course, referring to Jurgen Klinsmann's decision to leave him off of the World Cup team.

Donovan said that he has been considering retirement for more than a year now, dating back to his sabbatical from the sport at the beginning of last season. He took time off, traveled, and while he decided to come back, he was considering life beyond the game.

In the last few weeks, the possibility of retirement loomed larger in Donovan's mind and he said that he began to discuss retirement with his friends, family and others. Then before the Galaxy played the Sounders on July 28, he made up his mind: he was done.

After Donovan's career is over, he said he plans to travel and take some time for himself, but he also wants to work with the Galaxy academy. He didn't rule out coaching at a higher level, saying "we'll see" but continued "I absolutely want to work with kids. I spoke extensively to [Galaxy president Chris] Klein about working with the academy."

Now, he has just has three months left in his playing career. And one goal.

"I know it's the last chance and I want to win MLS Cup and if we don't win it then I want to go down fighting."