Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed that he turned down some "nice opportunities around Europe" to move to MLS side Los Angeles Galaxy.
Gerrard, 35, left boyhood club Liverpool after 17 years this summer and will be presented as a Galaxy player at half time of Saturday's game against Toronto.
"I had some nice opportunities around Europe," he told the Galaxy website.
"But I wanted a completely fresh challenge, to come out of my comfort zone, live away from home and get a different life experience and choose a place where my family can enjoy themselves and settle.
"When I retire from football in a few years time I want to say I did try something different and didn't stay in the same place - although I loved every minute of it."
Gerrard will make his Galaxy debut on July 17 at home to the San Jose Earthquakes.