Beckham Joins L.A. Galaxy!

It was confirmed on 11 January 2007 that David Beckham will be leaving Real Madrid and will be joining MLS team Los Angeles Galaxy on a 5 year deal. Beckham said: "This week Real asked me to make a decision regarding their offer to extend my contract. After considering several options to stay in Madrid or join other major British and European teams, I have decided to join L.A. Galaxy."

The Galaxy, citing industry experts, said Beckham's deal is worth more than $250 million in salary and commercial endorsements and is "thought to be the biggest in sporting history." This includes a $50 million USD ($10 million USD per year) salary, retention of existing sponsorship contract rights estimated to be worth $25 million USD, merchandising sales, and share of the club profits. This will make Beckham set to become the first modern footballer in history to have a stake in the football club he plays for - and share in its profits. -London (AP) / Wiki

(this is very good for U.S. Football, the publicity and the exposure that they are going to get will generate interest not just internationaly but with american audience as well. this deal will also open doors for other big time football players to sign w/ MLS, the league recently changed its rules on salary caps, making way for Beckham to sign the lucrative deal and become the first player to be signed under the new rule.)