It was just five years ago when soccer icon David Beckham made the trip across the pond from England and joined the Los Angeles Galaxy. On Nov. 20, Beckham won his first MLS Cup with the Galaxy, and with his contract expiring in December, that might have been his last meaningful match in the MLS.
If indeed this is the last we have seen of Beckham in the U.S., one question comes to mind. Did he have an impact on the league and soccer in this country?
From a layman’s point of view, one title in five years would indicate no. However, those who follow the game closely say he’s had a tremendous impact on the sport.
Giuseppe DePalo, NSU men’s soccer head coach, said Beckham has been great for the MLS and for U.S soccer.
“I think it was a resounding success. Mission accomplished. You can definitely say that the league and soccer in general is in a better place today than it was five years ago,” he said.
Alvin Quaye, senior soccer player, said, “[Beckham] has been a good ambassador for the MLS, and his move has made it easier for more people to follow him [by joining the MLS].”
Martin Naparstek, senior sport and rec-reation management major, also thought that Beckham’s presence in the MLS has made it easier for other high-profile soccer players to join the league.
“I think he helped make the league more attractive to European players like Henry, Keane, Marquez [and] Ljungberg,” said Nap-arstek.
Jonnathan Pineda, junior sport and rec-reation management major, said the popularity of MLS has improved a great deal since Beckham joined. However, he only watches the MLS when certain players play.
“[I] only watch games when Beckham, Henry or Juan Pablo Angel play,” said Pineda.
DePalo said the league needs to try a new approach if it wants to grow even further.
“Now it’s got to get away from being a league for retirees and develop a reputation as an up-and-coming league. Sort of like what Holland is,” he said. “Holland is a league where young players who aspire to get spotted for the Premier League or Bundesliga go and showcase themselves. I think that can be the model that MLS becomes.”
