Top > Sport > 2007 > January > 2007-01-15

Beckham comes to America, possibly earlier

David Beckham reached an agreement with MLS team the Los Angeles Galaxy, and has fallen out of agreement with his current club, Real Madrid. Coach Fabio Capello said on Saturday that the star soccer player will not play again for the club. Other than ending the relationship between the Spanish club and the English player on a discord, the decision means Beckham can be available to open the season with the Galaxy in April.

Capello`s relationship with Beckham was contested throughout the season, as Becks was benched often to his dissatisfaction, prompting his decision to leave the club. The contract offered by Los Angeles was tempting enough, as it stands on $250 million over five years. However, Capello seemed irritated by the situation brought upon him and the club. "The player`s decision to go to Los Angeles on such a big contract means we cannot count on him. You can`t have the same enthusiasm when your mind is on other things."

Galaxy has the opportunity now to buy out the remaining months of Beckham`s contract, about $5 million of the $11.3 million he will earn this year. This way Real will actually make money off the deal, instead of watch the player leave the club with no compensation. Beckham did not play in Madrid`s Saturday league match. Alongside him on the bench was three-time FIFA world soccer player of the year Ronaldo, who is also said to be in discussions to be traded, either to the MLS, Saudi Arabia or Italy.