Hi all,
Time to answer The Postman's Question of the Week by 3pm on Monday, to win these great Lotto packages for male or female readers.
The news of David Beckham making a move to the United States soccer scene later this year dominated world headlines and even had CNN talking about him for a while.
The former England captain's five-year contract with Major League Soccer (MLS) club
LA Galaxy is worth an astonishing 128 million pounds ($384m) - the richest deal in world sport.
And we've read all sides of the story, it seems. From his wife Victoria pulling the strings behind his decision to move to the only real land of celebrities so she can hobnob with Hollywood's acting and music moguls, to him simply deciding to sacrifice the last few years of his playing career for a lucrative payout.
But if you settle down to think about it properly, did Beckham pull off a masterstroke of a career decision at the age of 31?
Trust the Yanks. They can turn a beggar into a star. And Beckham's not exactly that rough.
Football-wise, as he ages, he won't lose that much since free-kicks and crosses require more technique than fitness. So Americans can still see some special moments for a few years.
No better place in the world too, than to sell your football youth academy franchise in the long run. After all, back in England, parents could send their children to clubs and football schools.
No better place and time, too, than to sell football in the US in this modern technological and marketing age (as compared to Pele's time with New York Cosmos in the 1970s).
Beckham could just turn out to be another expensive cog in American soccer's wheel as it tries to popularise the sport further, given increasing participation figures at grassroots level.
But is he really expecting to be the godsend of American soccer? More so, he's doing this for himself. And it so happens these plans happen to perfectly fit Victoria's celebrity needs.
The Postman's Question: Did Beckham make the best move of his life by deciding to go to the US?
Reply in not more than 200 words, please.
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The Postman
The New Paper
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35 comments:
Putting all footballing factors aside, Becks, with his fame and fortune, definitely looks like he belongs in Hollywood world.
However, it's important that Beckham has no serious delusions about this. If he honestly thinks his superstar iconic status can change an entire country's interest in the sport, he could end up being disappointed. Yes, he is perhaps the biggest star there is in football, but that could mean nothing in a country that doesn't value soccer as highly.
But of course, even if he fails in his "mission", he still has a fat paycheck to show for nothing, so it’s a guaranteed win-win situation for himself.
Yes, some may feel he's ending his career way too early, but when you think about it, what other better alternatives did he have anyway? No offence, but moving to teams like West Ham, Newcastle or Tottenham aren't really the most exciting and fanciful options either. So he might have retired a little earlier than most, but don't forget, he's practically won all the medals there are with Man United, he's had an "overseas experience" in Spain, and since he's ended his time with the national team too, you could say he had nothing else left for him to accomplish in football.
Now he can start on a new adventure, and who knows, in time to come, we might see him converted to Scientology or co-starring next to his buddy Tom Cruise on the big screen.
well, the USA is the best - make that the only - place he can go to where people will love him. enter any european club and he'll get a lot of flak from their media.
besides, victoria had it all planned out, didn't she? she had gone house-hunting in LA way before this whole deal became news, looked for the schools to transfer their kids to. to put it simply, the glamour-mad wife has made up beckham's mind for him: go to USA, where he'll get to play in as much games as possible (plus that gigantic pay check)and she'll be cruising through the streets of LA with "best friends" cum neighbours Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes with hopes of making it to Hollywood.
anyway, the MLS is not as physically-demamding as the EPL or La Liga, so Becks shouldn't have a problem with his fitness. just put in 1 or 2 crosses, set up a winner and he's the hero.
all that talk about him being the key to popularise football (or soccer as americans call it) in USA is just rubbish. we all know that's never going to happen. if Pele and Cryuff (2 players who are way beyond Beckham's league) couln
't succeed, what chance does Hollywood-blinded Beckham has?
most hope that he'll do ok there, but if he just can't make it as a top player there, he can just retire and work on his academy. but retired or not, his lifestyle and victoria's search for fame and glamour will never change.
Expensive cog or not, the most expensive football contract has been inked in history. Which 31 year old footballer in the world can boost of earnings of half a million weekly? He can be Winston Bogarde in disguise, another dud on retirement plan, it doesn't really matter.
Who is he trying to kid when he says he is not there for the money? The contracts paints the whole picture. When was the last time you witness Beckham scoring a brilliant freekick? I must admit that I'm impress that at the age of 31, he is still a potent threat at setpieces but not as prolific as he used to be.
Unless you tell me that Beckham is better than Cech, Terry, Ronaldhino, T.Henry and C.Ronaldo combined, then he is not worth the half a million weekly contract. It's definitely a win-win situation for Beckham. The same cannot be said for LA Galaxy. It's either make or break. Beckham's arrival might disrupt the team's harmony and send the team on a downward spiral or Beckham will perform on and off pitch, transforming the face of American football. We shall wait and see!
$250 million in 5 years for a player not even considered the best player in the world? Beckham has hit the jackpot.
It may not be the best move career-wise but it’s certainly the most profitable. To put it simply, the deal was brokered for the purpose of making money and milking whatever commercial appeal he has left.
Beckham the Player is more Beckham the Brand now. With a dwindling career and limited options, the LA Galaxy presents Beckham with the opportunity of being the main man again. Being in a league where he is the star, he will relish being hailed the messiah that puts the MLS on the world map.
However, it’s risky for the MLS to rely solely on Brand Beckham to make "soccer" popular in the States where people prefer their staple of baseball, American football and basketball.
It’s not a league that attracts world class players. Even the top American players prefer to ply their trade abroad. Hence, all the hoopla Beckham brings may not be enough to jumpstart the MLS to the next level.
It’s all hype but with no substance. Whatever happens in 5 years, its money in the bank for the Beckhams.
I believe Beckham was forced to make this move to the US and it wasn't entirely pre-meditated. For once, let's try to picture Beckham as a normal human being, like you and me. He has been chasing his dream of football since a youngster. Granted, he may not have the natural-born talent of Ronaldinho, but he has put in hard work to get to his position today.
Beckham's passion is football. One can imagine his tremendous joy and pride when he was made the captain of both his club and country. On the other hand, imagine his disappointment at being left out of the England line-up recently. Even worse still, he has been sidelined from the Real Madrid first team.
To kick-start his career again, why not move to a new country and start with a clean slate? Maybe he will be treated as a footballing god and given the recognition he deserves once again. Beckham's dream is to play football and to pass the tradition of football down to the younger generation. He had no other choice but to make this move to LA Galaxy. Beckham desires to play football before he gets too old for the game.
Beckham made the worst move while his wife made the best move.
Becks should know that with this move to the US, he's no longer playing for passion (no more playing for England) but rather for the money & also for the sake of his wife's career.
Victoria is right that a move back to EPL is unrealistic. Joining any of the other big 4, he would be booed by Man U fans. Joining the other teams would be a step downwards.
Hence, a move to US might seem ideal. However, to be godsend of America's soccer? That's still a long way off. His arrival has been emphasized by his huge paycheck. It's going to be difficult to popularize the sport in America (where there other male-dominated sports) with the strength of one British guy. The whole league itself must be exciting before it can reach the fervor of the EPL, not just one fanciful player with his beautiful set-pieces.
At the age of 31, I think he just pull the plug on his playing career. However, he also can make more money by being the coach of his friends’ (Tom&Kat, Brad&Jo, etc) children.
It all depends on what u mean by the best move of his life - His football career or other aspects.If you are talking about his football career, this is an extremely unwise move since i strongly believe that he will not be recalled back to the England team. At the age of 31, after playing for 2 of the world's biggest clubs, what more can a footballer ask for?
However, if one were to put themselves into Becks's shoes, there weren't any other options worth exploring. After playing for Man U, there certainly isn't going to be any other club in the EPL that would appeal. Yes, there were other European clubs who were interested. But at the age of 31, approaching the maturity date of a footballer's career, he had to think even further ahead. 128 million pounds. Countless opportunities to gain recognition in the US. This represents a great opportunity to establish a foothold and a supporter base if he decide to embark on a film career in future. To me, Beckham is a very wise man when he inked the deal. This to me, has been a masterstroke of a decision. I certainly would have done the same if i had his fortune.
Cheers,
kel
Average move of David Beckkham's life is earn US$250 million which brings him closer to be billionaire.
Good move in David Beckham's life is to earn more money through product endorsements, appearance fees, investments in soccer academy or sport clubs and own bsusinesses related to sports.
Better move for David Beckham is cheating Victoria who is pre-occupied with music moguls.
Best move of all is to be Hollywood actor which may lead millions of dollars into David Beckham's account.
Good friend Tom Cruise may make David Beckham joint leading man in former's movies.
An action movie may be in Beckham's pipeline like with Tom Cruise in 'Men From U.N.C.L.E'
From: Chester Low
yes because he is going there to help popularise the sport at america and coaching at the david beckham academy,the mls is not really the best league in the world neither is it attractive,and there is not a lot of talents there so beckham's star can easily shine there,beckham is using this to his advantage,he can easily outshine players who are nt really very talented..yes he is maing the right move..
Su Ying and her girl pal Suzie discuss about Old Lions after seeing them in action against Indonesia at National Stadium.
Suzie:'Singapore team shot their own feet.'
Su Ying:'You mean that striker who said he wanted to stop scoring after 5 goals and wished to be substituted during the game?'
Suzie:'He is the culprit who unified opposition officials and players whose sole aim is to defeat Singapore team at all costs.'
I:'Who went on to score 2 more goals despite all substitutes being used up.'
Su Ying:'Darling.Finally you've arrived.'
Suzie:'To me his words are insulting to Laos team.'
Su Ying:'Secondary school boys team boasting and thinking they can be men teams after trashing primary school kids team.'
I:'Because of that striker's words, soccer crazy Thailand and Malaysia spies reported back to their masters with possible evidence newspaper reporting
clips.'
Suzie:'That is why match officials adopted with See No Evil, Hear No Evil and Speak No Evil when Indonesian players committed bountiful fouls against national team without being punished.'
Su Ying:'To the referees, Lion's complains deem to be sins that deserves to be shown yellow cards.'
I:'Might be red cards too.Arrogant words result influential defensive midfielder being suspended in 1st leg together many injured 1st team players.'
Su Ying:'Because of insulting words plus looking down Malaysian Team by saying want to meet them in semi-finals.Malaysian Tigers are extremely motivated with full backing of their fans at Shah Alam.Which means a backlash for our national team.'
I:'Maybe 6-0 crushing defeat for Old Lions, having lost 0-4 before to Malaysia at our own backyard.'
Suzie coyish angry tone:'Hey! Both of you think I'm invisible or my non-existent in front of you?'
Su Ying:'Simmer down.Darling, take us for supper.'
I:'Let's go.'
From: Xiao Yu Er
I feel that Beckham was forced to move to LA Galaxy.
Surely he would have loved to end his career at a high profilic club like Real Madrid, but in this case he was unwanted by Fabio Capello. So Beckham probably had no choice but to move to the US to end his career.
Is this a masterstroke? For me, I actually think so, because:
1. Beckham is already 31, its most likely that he won't make an impact on the La Liga, so by moving to US, where soccer is not so competitive, he can play and earn more pay at the same time.
2. He won't be reprimanded by his manager if he attends another of Tom Cruise's functions.
3. As he is probably more popular in the US, he will most likely get more opportunities such as acting in movies, management etc. (should he decide to be a coach once he retires)
So all in all, though he has to play in a less competitive league, at least he will get to earn more money and mingle with more potential business partners.
Yes, Beckham made the right move.
He had benefited many people around him with his soccer academies, skills, positivity and stardom.
He still got much knowledge to share with those who aspire to be like him. If he isn't a healthy icon in his sport, no parents would even send their kids to his academies or even allow them to idolise him.
His popularity will help US Soccer move up one notch as many would want to watch him play.
Best of all, this opportunity would help boost American Sports in general and also allow any American a chance to excel in it.
Many are focus in his 250 mil paycheck but with his 5 year contribution if we break that 250 mil down, all you need is 250k of men or women to invest in his line of products per year and the sponsors are able to break even.
I am sure in America there are more than 200k players. In Singapore, whether social or professional we already have that amount.
To sum up this scenario, the sponsors stand to earn from this high profile move and they also would help boost Soccer as a sport in The United States.
If Beckham pull this off, America only stand to gain and that is why Galaxy should back him up.
Beckham is a media whore. He loves the publicity, Hollywood and being close to his high society friends. So, to him, what a fantastic way to mix soccer, with Hollywood, promote soccer in USA, play when he likes and earn big bucks. Nothing can better this move as Europe is a market that he cannot offer anything.
Question really comes 2 years later when results are not there. It will die down if the momentum is lost. What is MLS contract on the future performance performance and in between the fine line?
For soccer in Europe, he is history
Whatever way you look at his transfer, becks would definitely gain out of this move.
One aspect of his move is to promote football in the area, however, everyone would know becks as a famous footballing icon, more of his fame and popular status rather than the football.Hence, would people still love him once his controversial off the pitch situations at both Real Madrid and Manchester Utd affect his status?
Whats more, how can he get US to love him in the country where Kobe Bryant seemed more popularised?
He would be happy with his earnings there and in a place where football is not regarded so well, it would not matter if he performed week in, week out, more would be focused on the merchandise and his fame status relationships with other famous hollywood stars.
IT would be a much better move compared to transfers to Middlesbrough or Newcastle where the media would review his performances every week.
Therefore, his move would infact, be beneficial to him since his pay would nevertheless be massive, and play football peacefully in a place where his sports is not that fancied and he can participate in superstars event without strict directions given as in the case of Sir Alex Ferguson and Fabio Capello.
Beckham must have been enticed by the American dream. Before the signing of this lucrative contract, Beckham has already tons of money. The promises of first team football plus a chance to recreate the profile of football must have lure him to sign up for LA Galaxy.
It's easy to crucify Beckham out of jealousy. Putting myself in his shoes, perhaps this is the best way for him to end of his career. The potential of the US football standard cannot be underestimated. I believe Beckham will be slogging it out over there rather than slacking.
Footballing wise, he will contribute on and off pitch. Beckham could be the missing puzzle to promote Amercian football to the world.
In hindsight, the MLS offer was too good for Beckham to refuse. In a country where sports is a billion-dollar industry, $250 million in five years for a sportsman is considered peanuts. It may be a step backwards in his career but in the long run, Beckham may benefit more than all that money given to him.
While it remains to be seen if Beckham could make soccer a popular staple amongst the American public, he will undoubtedly raise the profile of the league. His signing has already generated a lot of publicity for the MLS and merchandising sales have sky-rocketed.
With his iconic status and wealth, Beckham could emulate his idol Michael Jordan and stamp his influence on the MLS. His status and the concessions he receives as the star of the MLS could mean Beckham becoming the face of MLS for years to come. Once he retires, he could even consider buying into one of the franchises and be an owner like Jordan.
He already has a football academy set up in LA and is in an environment well suited for his lifestyle and status. Hence in the long run, it could be his best move yet.
Its still too early to judge his move now. But a few of the legends like Pele and Franz Beckenbauer who has far more superior quality than beckham had failed at American Soccer League.
Why beckham can overtake their success??? its simple... beckham's pinpoint crosses and Accuracy free-kick will make American football into fast and entertaining football just like english league. And believe it... every american footballers are keen to bend like him.
Beckhams surely made the right move to leave Madrid for LA Galaxy. We are talking about a superstar whose footballing skills have deproved and a team is willing to pay 128 million pounds for his services so why not go?
There are 5 main reasons why he chose to play for LA Galaxy:
1. LA Galaxy will promise him playing time (something Madrid didn't)
2. LA Galaxy is close to his footballing academy
3. LA Galaxy's deal which will be a record deal in world sport
4. Living in the United States (Los Angeles) will bring him closer to his Hollywood dreams
5. He wants to try and help USA's footballing standards
With this move, Beckham can now prove to himself and the world that he had made a right choice. Starting by helping his team win the MLS in the upcoming MLS season.
in terms of his fame and money wise, he made the best move ever to be made by an icon of his stature.
but footall wise,
its a major step back for him..
yes, i agree, he has a soccer school there,but the league there is not even of a proper standard...
might as well ask him to play in the s league?
major league soccer a force to e reckoned with?
with just one recognised world superstar in beckham, who are they kidding??
Outside Hard Rock Cafe after Liverpool Vs Chelsea match.
I:'Those fellows are brave enough to enter Liverpool's den in chelsea jerseys.'
Su Ying:'This is my Liverpool turf.Fortunately Liverpool 2 Chelsea 0 is the result.If Chelsea wins, those fellows will never walk out alone intact.'
Suzie:'Liverpool cop fans also turn up and watch.Nothing will happen.'
I:'I'm happy all's well ends well for Liverpool.'
Suzie:'Did my ears her wrongly.You dislike Liverpool but why are you happy for Liverpool to win?'
I:'I'm happy to see Liverpool bump off Chelsea which is a threat to my woman.'
Su Ying angry:'You have another woman?'
I:'I meant my favourite club liken as my wife.'
Suzie:'Liverpool to win 2-0 over Chelsea is just like dream come true.'
Su Ying:'It is a reality.It has happen.'
I:'I believe dark forces plan Liverpool's win over Chelsea.'
Su Ying:'Sour grapes.'
I:'It isn't sour grapes.Ricardo Carvalho has high fever before the match.Therefore, he can't play.Looks suspicious to me.'
Su Ying:'You mean induced high fever inside body before the match?'
I:'You can't rule that out.Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho and Jose Mourinho are Portugese.'
Suzie:'They're telling Roman Abramovich don't mess with Portugese?'
I:'Likely message.Paulo Ferreira turn his back on the ball.It is a cardinal sin for central defenders to do that which result in Liverpool's first goal.Jose Mourinho said it shouldn't be any problem to overcome 9 points deficit.'
Su Ying:'Provided it goes well between Roman and Jose?'
I:'Spot on.Another incident in the match shows support for Mourinho.That s Blue Brothers Act by Drogba and Ballack in 67th minute freekick.'
Suzie:'The way how freekick was taken with their clown antics.'
I:'Precisely.It clearly shows more of such incidents will follow up in coming matches if standoff between Abramovich and Mourinho hasn't settle in favour of latter.'
Su Ying:'Looks like my Xiao Yu Er is happy with such outcome.'
I:'I'm most happy after The Newpaper reports that Jose Mourinho is welcome to succeed Alex Ferguson.It means more good years to come for Manchester United winning EPL, Champions League, FA and Carling Cups.'
Suzie:'Su Ying and I are Liverpool fans.What is your stand and where will you be this coming week?'
I:'My stand is Manchester United will massacre Liverpool with 5-0 win.During the match I'll be At Devil's Bar and when match ends, I'll come and console you girls at Hard Rock Cafe.'
Su Ying:'All ranks and files are closed with healing process after that match.'
I:'It'll be fastest healing when Manchester United trash Liverpool.'
Su Ying:'You'll never walk alone sleeping on our sofa in our home.'
I:'Don't get upset.In front of you, I'll tone down my gloating of Liverpool's demise.Just don't read my postings to Dear Postman because it'll definitely upset you.Saerang hayo, ai shite ru, wo ai ni, 520, love you more than I say, 999 roses...'
Su Ying:'Darling.I love you too.Liverpool is my dog.The saying goes "Love me, Love my dog too.".Do you understand?'
I:'Only in front of you, nice things about Liverpool will be said.But in Dear Postman and so forth it will be sinister laughter and smile with "Pleasant words for Liverpool".Fair enough?'
Su Ying:Done deal.You must continue to support and cheer with me my beloved Liverpool while watching live matches.'
I:'Certainly.With occassional sneak out to our neighbour's place and cheer together for our beloved Red Devils.'
Suzie:'Our cab has arrived.Next week, I'll be at your place to watch Liverpool Vs Manchester United.'
Su Ying:'You're well come.What about you darling?'
I:'She's welcome to keep you company.'
Su Ying:'You promise to keep me company watching live Liverpool matches regarding?'
I:'Except this match.'
From: Xiao Yu Er
It's a shame Beckham has decided to end his professional career at the highest level. At 31, Becks still has a lot of football left in him. With lots of hard work and desire, Beckham could still have been an important player for Real. And who knows, maybe reclaim his spot in the England set-up.
Beckham in his prime wouldn't even have contemplated a move to the States. Hence, his motives seem to be more financially and maybe, egoistically motivated. With his iconic status, Beckham would never move to a lesser and unglamorous club in Europe; having played for the 2 biggest clubs in the world. However, the big clubs have no use for him.
The simple truth is he will never be the same player that helped Man United to all those honors they won in the 90s or the Captain Marvel that inspired England to the World Cup of 2002. He may still be a superstar but he will never be mentioned as a great football legend.
Thus, if he succeeds in popularizing soccer in the States and turns the MLS into a global brand, maybe that will provide him with the salvation of achieving football immortality and greatness.
At the age of 31, Beckham is nearing the end of its career. With this thought in mind, Beckham signed the luxurious contract with MLS side LA Galaxy. What better way to end his career with the retirement plan all sorted out.
The millions that will enter Beckham's pocket will ensure that he will be able to sustain his family's luxurious lifestyle for a few years after his retirement.
What better way to set himself a situation that he will still be as famous and popular after his retirement than to make the move to the US where many large MNCs are established. This will open himself a bigger market where he can continue earning from product endorsements.
Thirdly, with his fame and looks, it will be an ideal move for him to move to Hollywood after his retirement. With friends in the movie world, family settled in US, it will be smooth for Beckham to become an actor in Hollywood.
With these 3 reasons in mind, it is no wonder that Beckham decided to sign with MLS side LA Galaxy. And also, because of these 4 reasons, his move to LA Galaxy will be the move of his life.
The move to America is definately not the best of his life but not the worst too.
Career-wise for Beckham,after playing for Man Utd,like Sir Alex stated,the chance of seeing him in another English team is gonna be very rare.Same apply to Real Madrid.Perhaps one will say he should try his luck in the next best league which is Italy's Serie A but don't forget that league is still tainted with the scandals of last season.So that leave him with German league,I bet no clubs can pay his huge juicy wage package in the poorly financed German league.So all these leaves him with really no choice but a move away from Europe.
America seem the best among the choices.Alright,the money is the big talking point here,taking away the credentials of his words of improving America soccer standard at the same time.Lets be real,this move won't improve him as a player any further nor will it earn him a recall to England since it isn't so when he is in the color of Real Madrid.So with a club willing to fork such a sum of money to employ him,why not take the offer?Its too good to reject it after all.He still have a few years of football life in him and with his marketability,he can still make some impact in America no doubt.By the time he retire,Hollywood could be ready for him.All in all,his career life will not end there but prolong,into the other specialty of course.
To me the best move of his life is definately signing the contract with the Devils.The worst being the same scenario but with the Galaticos this time.
Cheers
At the age of 31, he still packs lot of energy in his legs. Looking at the bigger picture, a move to America will prolong his playing career and he will get to play in a position that he craves - the centre of the park.
Beckham's contract is ending this season and there are actually many teams across Europe that were interested in his services but most of them, were unable to promise him first team football. All his life, he's used to regular playing time. His last season at Real Madrid must have been the final straw that caused him to rethink his future. Life on the bench or at the side line isn't really Beckham's cup of tea.
As long Beckham works hard and maintain his focus, he will definitely win over the American fans with his radar-guided crosses and deadly freekicks. Becka-mania is about to descend upon the ultimate land of dreams!
Best move financially? Maybe yes.
Best move for his footballing career? A certain no.
There's no need to explain why a move to US will benefit Becks financially. We all know about the huge wages he will be taking home every week. But why did he choose to abandon European football at the age of 31?
Becks still has lots to offer. He is still one of the best freekick takers in the world, he can still deliver pin-point passes and set-pieces, not to mention his burning passion and stamina on the pitch. I am very sure he can still deliver at the very highest level. He could have made a move to AC Milan(he has not played in Italy), or even back to England with Bolton(He will suit Bolton's style of play). Both moves will boost his chances of getting an England recall. But he chose for fame and limelight in US. Definitely not the best move, in fact a very bad move.
ojdfzrIn moving to LA Galaxy, I think Beckham aims to boost his celebrity status further in the US, as demanded by Mrs Beckham, and to get up close with the Hollywood stars. Football is just a tool to achieve this. It is a good gesture of him wanting to single-handedly promote the Major League Soccer. However, I don’t see how he could succeed on his own where others such as Pele have failed.
Is this Beckham’s best move? I would say that it would not only extend his soccer playing career for another 5 years, plus being able to get a big fat incentive (£250 millions) for the move, but also boost his celebrity status in the US.
There is already an elevation of interest in the US soccer, because of Beckham.
The only way for Beckham to help achieve long term success for the US soccer league would be through intense marketing and to get other stars like Ronaldo and Figo to join him. This is where Beckham, the marketing icon, comes in handy. If by any chance that the US team could reach the grand final of the 2010 World Cup, he would have done well
In moving to LA Galaxy, I think Beckham aims to boost his celebrity status further in the US, as demanded by Mrs Beckham, and to get up close with the Hollywood stars. Football is just a tool to achieve this. It is a good gesture of him wanting to single-handedly promote the Major League Soccer. However, I don’t see how he could succeed on his own where others such as Pele have failed.
Is this Beckham’s best move? I would say that it would not only extend his soccer playing career for another 5 years, plus being able to get a big fat incentive (£250 millions) for the move, but also boost his celebrity status in the US.
There is already an elevation of interest in the US soccer, because of Beckham.
The only way for Beckham to help achieve long term success for the US soccer league would be through intense marketing and to get other stars like Ronaldo and Figo to join him. This is where Beckham, the marketing icon, comes in handy. If by any chance that the US team could reach the grand final of the 2010 World Cup, he would have done well
Did Beckham make the best move of his life by deciding to go to the US?
I think the question here is that if that Beckham made the best decision of his life...Not that Beckham will be the messiah of American soccer in which most people here are trying to imply.
With his advancing age and declining ability the move to LA Galaxy is probably is the best he can make. He had achieved two targets by making this move. First he got the money that most current teams can not offer him now. And second the opportunity to play first team football.
In a footballers point of view Beckham had nothing to prove to anybody. HE had achieved medals on the sport and had proven that he can play outside the premier league.
People should understand that despite his waning capabilities, it is still amazing that he is able to command that certain amount of money.
No, Beckham did not make the best move of his life by deciding to go to the US. He should play for any Premiership club that wants him. While David Beckham was playing for Manchester United, he was their icon, their main-eventer, their showstopper. One flying boot from Sir Alex, Beckham moved to Real Madrid where he was at best mediocre. Good thing about moving to LA Galaxy is he becomes a richer person and he already is rich. His wife Victoria did some masterminding in his move because she wants to rub shoulders with the Hollywood people in Los Angeles. David Beckham is not the Godsend of American soccer. This guy is British. If he wants to teach children proper football, he should be teaching his own countrymen. It's all about the money.
I think that its the best move for him finanacially, but do he deserve such a big pay packet?
1stly there is no doubt he's a good player, but he's not a good team player. He thinks that he's good in central midfield, but we all know he's only lethal on the right. He tries the "Hollywood" pass too often, going for glory passes more often then not. i think he should face it that when he goes to America, Landon Donovan will be the creative force of his side, not Beckham.
I personally believe that Beckham should have gotten lesser pay and play for a lesser EPL team, because for all his Patriotic talk, going to America will not allow him to paly for england again since its a lousier league. Bad move Becks.
Chan Chee Wai
k_elvin74@hotmail.com
Wow! $384m, that sounds mouth-watering for anyone in this world & Becks has decided to "take up a new challenge" in the MLS. Enough of all your fancy talk, Becks. As he said ,"It's not about the money." I don't blame him from "stating the truth" but who would turn down a $384m offer? If I were him, I would also "state the truth". Why? What would youthink ifBecks said this," It's all about the money." Obviously, the press would slam him and call him "moneyface". The MLS would also suit his game very well as he is getting older and thus, getting slower by day. Maybe the Americans do not play as fast as the Europeans. Going to the US means that he will get more change to play in the starting XI and that could mean an international call-up by McClaren. I almost forgot about Posh, she could be a movie star in Hollywood and earn loads of money. Becks, you have made the best profitable decision of your life.
Sorry Ernest, I forgot to space out certain words.
$384m for a 5 year deal. How can it be a wrong career move? Unless of course he's not in it for the money. Even if he doesn't lift the soccer standards in US, it's still a correct career move.
no, of course. the move is all because of the money. look at how becks helped man u and real to be the world richest soccer club before. LA Galaxy must have thought about this plan to earn money. altough the deal is a whopping 250million for five years, LA Galaxy must have calculated the profits already. the sales of his jerseys, more people buying their tickets to watch the match. it all comes down to one word, 'MONEY'!
but let's thinks, do becks need that money? he's already football's richest star. not only that, brands like adidas, gillete, pepsi has links with him for commercial deals. that should already worth few millions a year..
so what was the answer to becks move to LA Galaxy.. could it be that he wants to settle down in states? he wants to play more games? his football academy? to stay close to his hollywood friends? all this are just possible answers, but who knows which one it is? it's all inferences.
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