Is it appropriate to start a separate thread about Donovan's first friendly with Bayern? If not, feel free to close. However, Juergen Klinsmann confirms that Donovan will start tomorrow, so I'm excited to see what he can bring to the table. Also, with Podolski out with a flu, Donovan is Bayern's #3 striker at the moment! Movin on up! Kick-off 8 AM EST January 10th, 2009
Re: Donovan: FC Bayern vs. Al Jazeera (R) Yes, but in the Gameday forum. Someone will move it. I'm really excited to see what he can do.
Re: Donovan: FC Bayern vs. Al Jazeera (R) This is terrific news that Donovan will get the start. Let's hope he seizes his opportunity to impress.
C'mon Landon. I believe his success/failure at FCB will probably be the largest indictment of US soccer in many years...especially in Europe. All teams have good/bad World Cups, but if we're ever going to be able to compete with the top teams, we have to be able to produce players who can make it at the top clubs in Europe. C'mon Landon!
Well, it couldn't possibly be worse than his last appearance for a German club. I am hoping he does well for Bayern in this match, and throughout his loan period. And I'm sure he will -- since he has improved greatly since 2005.
I agree on both counts...and I was speaking more about the long-term than just this match with regards to his performance. I also think he's in a better situation to succeed with FCB than he was at Leverkusen, even though Bayern is a better club. Jurgen's giving him a chance to prove he wants to challenge for a spot on the team...let's hope Landon takes advantage of it. Here are a couple of good links I found w/ quotes from Donovan and Klinsmann regarding his future at FCB: "First Friendly and Donovan's Debut" "Donovan Relishing the FCB Challenge"
For a friendly vs Al Jazeera? I dare say we've had more anticipated YA matches over the last year. I mean, it's almost kick-off and we're only on page two of the thread!
Agree completely. I viewed the question as being more of speculation over what the biggest anticipated game was BEFORE (at least for me)
Friendly or no friendly, at this time of year its tough to find a match to watch for a Yank. Donovan's debut is good enough reason for a 5am wake up call as any. Lets go Landy Kunchen (think that is the right translation, German is not my cup of tea)