Galaxy owner backs Becks
The LA Galaxy chief expects David Beckham to have a huge impact on US soccer.
The LA Galaxy owners expect David Beckham to have a massive impact on United States soccer.
Your View - Beckham's LA switch
The head of Galaxy's parent company Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) also believes the former England captain will help US soccer catch up with the rest of the world.
Beckham is to sign a five-year deal with the Major League Soccer side expected to be worth around £128million.
"David Beckham will have a greater impact on soccer in America than any athlete has ever had on a sport globally," Timothy J Leiweke, president of AEG, told the LA Galaxy website.
"We are acquiring an individual that will not only be the best ambassador and the best role model for athletes and fans of soccer but the best example of what any athlete can and should be.
"David is truly the only individual that can build the 'bridge' between soccer in America and the rest of the world," added Leiweke.
Beckham becomes the first MLS player acquired via the League's new Designated Player Rule which allows the signing of players whose salary falls outside the team salary budget.
The head of MLS is also delighted to have Beckham joining the league.
"David Beckham is a global sports icon who will transcend the sport of soccer in America," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber.
"His decision to continue his career in Major League Soccer is testament to the fact that America is rapidly becoming a true 'Soccer Nation' with Major League Soccer at the core.
"In the last few years, MLS has added three new teams, six new owners, four new soccer specific stadiums and signed four long term television agreements. The addition of David Beckham represents another significant step forward for the MLS and the sport.
"As importantly, David's enormous success as a player and team leader will serve as an inspiration to millions of soccer players and fans in this country and his global popularity will help take MLS and the sport of soccer in this country to an unprecedented level of excitement and popularity here and abroad," Garber concluded.
