Beckham Will Return

Yeah, Johanna, that's always the real bottom line isn't it? At this point Adidas is Beckham's longest standing business partner in all of this, and the one that has made and continues to make the most off of his brand. It would probably be the most helpful to know what their preference is at this point. They dress both teams. Follow the money as always, eh.

True, Milan may hold Beck's papers, but I am sure he has all sorts of other endorsement contracts that hinge on him playing at the Galaxy. If he does not come back then he will be in breach of contract with them.

Let's hope it doesn't come to that. It's so valuable for clubs to be able to loan young players out to where they can get consistent first team experience -- as in Jozy's case, or just to keep a player they don't want to lose active when there isn't a spot for them, and to know that they can get them back when they want them. It would be a shame if one of the last "friendly arrangements" made in big biz sports was undermined if Milan sink that low. (I've never thought this deal means as much to them as they've claimed -- unfortunately for both Becks and the Galaxy).

Diane, that is good to know about the transfer and papers. I imagine if AC Milan keeps Beckham, they won't worry about burning any bridges with the MLS. I doubt they'll ever consider another MLS player again.

Glen - Thanks for the link.

Beckham interview

"David Beckham: How I Decided To Stay At Milan"

http://www.goal.com/en-india/n...

Everyone should remember that Milan actually hold Beckham's transfer papers until June, when the European transfer window opens again. They made a "gentleman's agreement" to return him on March 9, as Bayern Munich did for Donovan. But legally (no, I've never understood how FIFA is allowed to make laws) both players belong to the club that holds their papers and are subject to the rules of the league they are playing in -- including its transfer schedule.

I still can't imagine a club going back on that kind of agreement (clubs find find them too handy). But it might have made Milan a little less nervous about the offer deadline.

I should have followed my transfer season rule: I do not believe a SINGLE thing anyone says, writes, or swears to until I see the player in question actually kick the ball for the team they are rumored to be going to/staying with -- after the window has closed.

To be even more cynical: can you imagine how much both Milan and LA would have to pay for the amount of publicity they are both getting as this drags on? (As Cobi pointed out.)

AEG waited way too long before issuing any statements and let the stories come out in the media that Beckham wanted gone before stating their position. They have little leverage now, and should be happy with $10m.

I say let's take what we can get for him and move on. Let's try to pretend none of this ever happened.

Christ, why do you guys even want him anymore? He doesn't want to play for the Galaxy! I can't wait to see him try to convince the fans he's committed to the MLS again. But hey, they believed him the first time, so I guess it won't be *that* hard. (mabe we shud call him david FAILham LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL!!!!!!!!!!!11)

He can still buy his way out of his contact.