WATCH: LA Galaxy celebrate MLS legend Landon Donovan’s iconic debut for them in 2005

Landon Donovan announced himself in iconic fashion on his LA Galaxy debut in 2005, scoring a brace in a 3-1 win over Real Salt Lake - a performance so memorable that the club’s official social media accounts recently posted a throwback tribute to the moment.

Before that historic debut, Donovan had taken a winding path through the soccer world. Despite signing with Bayer Leverkusen in 1999, he struggled to adapt to life overseas and returned to MLS, joining the San Jose Earthquakes. There, the teenage phenom quickly found his footing, winning multiple MLS Cups. After a brief return to Germany, Donovan opted once again for American soil - but this time in Galaxy colors, where he immediately began building a legendary legacy.

Donovan's debut for the Galaxy marked the start of a new era for both the player and the club. Over his career, Donovan would go on to become MLS's all-time leading goalscorer with 145 goals at the time of his retirement, a record he held until it was broken by Chris Wondolowski (171) in 2019. He has since slipped into third place with Kei Kamara overtaking him at second with 147 goals.

As the LA Galaxy continues to honor its rich history, fans can expect more throwback content celebrating the club's legendary players and moments. This connection to the past helps strengthen the bond between the team and its supporters especially as the club endures a torrid start to the season, having yet to win a game after seven league games played.