The unlikely rumours have been confirmed: David Beckham will join AC Milan on loan in January. The former England captain will link up with Italian side for four months during the MLS close season, before returning for the start of LA Galaxy’s new campaign in April.
Although there are obvious commercial benefits of signing Beckham, seven times European champions Milan are unlikely to have done so solely for financial motives. His recent performances for England have shown that even without playing top-class club football week in week out his game has not deteriorated. Beckham will definitely strengthen a Milan squad that preaches its own, ‘If you’re old enough, you’re good enough,’ mantra.
Serie A’s languorous technical style is likely to suit the 33-year-old’s game. With the invention of Ronaldinho, Kaka and Alexandre Pato through the middle, Beckham’s outlet of quality service from the right will add an extra dimension to Milan’s attack. Filipo Inzaghi, Andrei Shevchenko and Marco Borriello are likely to be salivating at the prospect of his deliveries.
The move also highlights Beckham’s commitment and desire to stay in the England team. With Fabio Capello stating that he will only pick players who are playing regularly, five months wihtout a game would have meant it unlikely he would get the two more caps he needs to break Bobby Moore’s record of 108 for an outfield player.
One question that has been left unanswered is why Beckham’s paymasters, LA Galaxy, have sanctioned the move. Including endorsements he earns in the region of £25 million a year. A figure you would have thought buys exclusivity.
At that price it’s questionable as to why they would want to risk such a highly prized asset. Add to that the fact that playing in another league through the close season is likely to have implications for a 34-year-old’s fitness when Galaxy’s new season kicks off. You have to question why they have agreed to allow him to go out on loan.
Two years ago Beckham was written off after moving to the MLS and being left out of Steve Maclaren’s initial England squads. This move will now cap a career that has seen him play for Manchester United, Real Madrid and AC Milan.
Love him or loathe him, Beckham’s grit and determination match his penchant for a fashion faux pas. In spite of the media focus and all the trappings of a celebrity lifestyle, he has always remained a consummate professional. It’s fitting that he will get his wish and play for three of the world’s greatest clubs.
Posts
