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MLS Commissioner Don Garber recently acknowledged the pivotal role played by David Beckham in shaping the trajectory of Major League Soccer, suggesting that without Beckham’s arrival in 2007, Lionel Messi wouldn’t have found himself at Inter Miami in 2024.
During a Q&A session with ESPN, Garber emphasized the significance of Beckham’s decision to join the LA Galaxy in 2007, asserting that it was a watershed moment for MLS. Beckham’s global appeal and star power not only elevated the league’s profile but also demonstrated its potential as a destination for top-tier talent like Messi.
Garber reflected on the transformative impact of Beckham’s tenure in MLS, noting that while the initial transition may have posed challenges, it ultimately paved the way for Beckham’s evolution into an MLS team owner. He speculated on the alternate reality of MLS had Beckham not made the pivotal decision to join the league, suggesting that its landscape would look markedly different today.
Furthermore, Garber highlighted the lessons learned from Beckham’s transfer, stressing the importance of ensuring that high-profile players align with the ethos of the league and the clubs they represent. He underscored the need for comprehensive support systems to facilitate successful transitions for marquee signings, emphasizing that while some have flourished, others have faced difficulties.
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami last summer marked another milestone in MLS history, with Beckham playing a crucial role in orchestrating the transfer. The Argentine maestro’s debut season in MLS saw him make a significant impact, culminating in being named a finalist for MLS Newcomer of the Year, winning the Inaugural Leagues Cup and earning his eighth Ballon d’Or accolade.
