In the aftermath of the 2014 World Cup, U.S. soccer legend Landon Donovan and then-head coach Jurgen Klinsmann found themselves at the center of one of the most polarizing moments in American soccer history. Donovan, controversially left off the World Cup roster, was the face of U.S. Soccer for over a decade. Klinsmann’s decision to exclude him sparked outrage among fans and analysts alike. But what happened between the two after the tournament?
Recently, Donovan shared the story of their first real conversation following the World Cup, offering a candid glimpse into an emotional, awkward, yet telling moment between two figures who shaped modern U.S. soccer.
The 2014 Send-Off Game in Hartford
Donovan was granted a farewell match on October 10, 2014, in Hartford, Connecticut, a symbolic gesture arranged by then-U.S. Soccer president Sunil Gulati. Although Donovan wasn’t part of the official camp, Gulati arranged for a plane to fly him and 15 family members from Los Angeles to Hartford for a proper send-off in front of U.S. fans.
It was at this game where Donovan and Klinsmann sat down face-to-face—not on the field, but in a bar.
A Conversation Years in the Making
Donovan recalled the moment vividly: “It was obviously awkward,” he said. “He never would have wanted me there.” Still, both men sat down and shared an honest exchange.
“I was already there. He came in with a backpack, which I thought was kind of strange,” Donovan added. But once they sat down, the two began to talk—really talk—for the first time since the fallout.
Donovan expressed his disagreement with Klinsmann’s decision to leave him off the 2014 World Cup squad, while Klinsmann stood by what he believed was best for the team. Then came a surprising admission from Klinsmann: he had journaled and documented everything that occurred during that time.
“That was interesting,” said Donovan. “You only do that when you feel like you may have to justify your decisions—or when you’re concerned about how it might play out.”
An Unexpected Apology
In a moment of humility, Klinsmann also apologized for his son’s public comments during that period—particularly those that were critical of Donovan. It was a small gesture, but one that stood out to Donovan.
Despite the emotional weight of the moment, Donovan acknowledged that he was still upset. “When I got subbed off, around the 40th minute, I didn’t want to give him any time,” he admitted. “But you also don’t want to make it a bigger deal than it already was.”
Their final interaction? A handshake. One last quiet, symbolic gesture—perhaps closure, or maybe just an end to that chapter.
Where Do They Stand Now?
So, are Landon Donovan and Jurgen Klinsmann on good terms today?
It’s complicated—but respectful. Donovan gives Klinsmann credit for having the conversation and owning his decisions, even if they never fully reconciled their differences. Sometimes, just sitting down and talking is enough.
Conclusion
The rift between Landon Donovan and Jurgen Klinsmann may never fully heal in the eyes of fans, but their post-2014 conversation reveals a level of mutual understanding that often goes unseen. It’s a reminder that behind every headline is a human story—one filled with conflict, vulnerability, and ultimately, a willingness to talk it out.