David Beckham’s Miami Franchise is Major League Soccer’s Next Big Step
By Marcel Dumas
"Coming to play for Beckham’s franchise will be enticing for many players for multiple reasons. It is these reasons that can help MLS take the next step."
Major League Soccer fans have seen a noticeable improvement in the level of play in the league over the last few seasons. The increased investment in players in acquisitions and in development through the academy systems have began to pay dividends on the field. With MLS continuing to move itself towards its goal of being a top league in the world, it needs a little push to take the next step forward. Enter David Beckham and his Miami franchise.
David Beckham helped further the MLS image in the world of soccer when he joined the LA Galaxy. His service in MLS opened new avenues in building interest in the league. As a player, he was a key figure in helping to grow the league. As an owner, he will have the opportunity to take MLS even further in their journey.
Miami as a franchise location is important to MLS in many ways. Like Los Angeles, Miami is a desirable destination for players. The lifestyle and culture that surrounds the Miami area will be key in convincing players to bring their talents to south Florida.
A franchise in Miami will spurn a natural rivalry with the recently formed Orlando City a few hours north. Building rivalries to energize the fan bases in MLS is also one of the keys for the league’s continued growth.
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Beyond the location, is the large persona of David Beckham. Beckham is unlike any owner MLS has ever had. His storied career and connections throughout the soccer community are going to give him an edge that no other owner can lay claim to.
Coming to play for Beckham’s franchise will be enticing for many players for multiple reasons. It is these reasons that can help MLS take the next step.
Beckham’s career stops at some of the largest clubs in Europe has exposed him to managers, agents and owners throughout the European leagues. The relationships formed over those years will lead to Miami being appropriately linked to some major signings. While they will not be able to nail down signings like a Real Madrid or Barcelona, Miami will be able to attract some higher profile names when compared to any MLS team not named the Galaxy.
With Beckham seeking major investors with deep pockets, the price range of the players he can go after should be rather large. Depending on how many of these high end investors get behind the project, the funds available for not only players but marketing, facilities and coaches could be a huge advantage.
Having the ability from a financial and attraction standpoint to add high end talent will put Miami on the soccer radar, but what can put the interest level into overdrive is the Team Beckham marketing machine. Fans have differing opinions on Beckham the player and where his career fits when compared to his peers. What is of little doubt is the amount of attention Beckham was able to generate on and off the pitch wherever he went in his career.
The Beckham brand is an incredible media machine. The ability to get Beckham’s name and image sold worldwide was a sight to behold. Team Beckham knows how to sell their product on a global scale. This will be in full force once the Miami franchise is launched. It is this ability to gain media attention through previously untapped markets that will help MLS the most.
Beckham will attract excellent players to Miami. Their success on the pitch will have an impact on the building of the Miami fanbase, but the global reach of Beckham’s image will help sell MLS to other markets. This is one of the next steps MLS needs for continued growth and notoriety. How they take advantage of this opportunity will determine how quickly MLS can grow in stature as a league.