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It was announced recently that David Beckham, former Manchester United, Real Madrid and England star, will remain in Italy with AC Milan until the end of their season. He will then return to America and the MLS (Major League Soccer) to rejoin the Los Angeles Galaxy in July.
I really only have one thing to say to Beckham Dude, you're one selfish jerk.
I was in Iraq when I first read the news that one of my heroes I used to watch with Man U was on his way to America to help the struggling MLS. I was initially shocked and then proud. Beckham said things in the press that really amazed me. Things like wanting to help soccer grow in America and thinking he could retire here. The idea was awesome, an English star helping prove the MLS isn't in the pot, that we actually have the chance to become a promising league.
The press for this guy was amazing, to say the least. Ticket numbers skyrocketed and the MLS saw a jump in TV ratings and jersey sales. Everything was looking up.
And then the day came when Mr. Beckham decided to go behind the Galaxy and strike a deal with AC Milan. At first I thought this would be a good thing. David would get the chance to train in the off season of the MLS and he would also possibly have the chance to join England on the pitch again to repave over his disappointing international career.
And then the news came. Everyone was talking about it. Beckham wants to stay in Milan for the remainder of the season. I have to admit I was shocked.
I couldn't believe this star of a player would lead American fans along. I couldn't believe he would turn his back on his team and their local fans the way he did. He says it's to better his chance to be seen for the national team. I say that's a crock of poo.
Let's face it; David Beckham received a ton of crap from his friends abroad for joining an American team. He was ridiculed, belittled, and he crapped out and couldn't take it anymore. The only reason he will return to America is to finish the remainder of the Galaxy's season. After that, he has a clause in his contract to end his time with the Galaxy, which he has shown us he will do.
And this is where the problem comes in for me. This star, this super-ultra-megastar, couldn't take the teasing and name calling from his "friends." He could stand behind the MLS and say, "Hey, I'm really proud to be here and I'll prove it by honoring my mega-million dollar contract. These guys in the MLS really are amazing and the world needs to open up their eyes and see what they're missing."
Now sure, I'm quite aware the MLS is not as big as the English Premier League or the La Liga, but I'll tell you what we are we have a better league than Sweden, Scotland and other European clubs have. Some of our teams in the MLS could top teams from France and even the Netherlands. Trust me, it's true.
But the world won't care. Not for at least another ten years or so. That's right; Beckham has set us back that far. See, the entire world witnesses Beckham, the megastar, didn't want to stay in America, so there must be something wrong with it and the MLS.
Thanks Beckham. We really appreciate that.
I used to be a fan. I supported you at Man U. I stood behind you when you were red-carded in France for being stupid and retaliating to a foul. I stood behind you when England took away your captain's armband. But now I see why they did, and I'm sorry it took me so long to finally see.
I'm also sorry for America and the MLS, who didn't deserve to be deceived by you, a selfish jerk.
Ryan Stroud is a military trained journalist who has served in Iraq with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, US Army. Prior to his military experiences, Stroud grew up playing, coaching, and refereeing soccer. Also, Stroud focused many years of his life playing, touring, and recording/producing local music acts. He has a wonderful wife of 4 years, a 2 year old son and a newborn daughter.
Stroud's biggest writing influences are Jim Butcher, Chuck Palahniuk, Edward Lee, Jack Ketchum, Christopher Moore and Ben Fox.
He currently resides in Huntsville, Al, with the 59th Ordnance Brigade at Redstone Arsenal.
Stroud would also like to take a moment to thank his friends who are currently in battle over in Iraq. God bless all of you.
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