David Beckham is taking his talents to South Beach. The former soccer star has announced plans to bring a Major League Soccer franchise to Miami.
"It's a big decision, but it's a very personal one. I want to make it my own team. ... I wanted to create a team that can be very personal. Everything that I've done throughout my career have been very personal to me." (Via Sky News)
Thirty-eight-year-old Beckham said a world-class stadium will be built for the club and that he felt Miami was "ready for soccer." (Via Sky News)
"Why Miami?"
"Why not? It's a great city. It's a vibrant city." (Via Miami Herald)
Beckham retired from the game last May. He played in the MLS with the LA Galaxy for five years. The BBC reports he was able to make the switch from player to owner because of the financial package he negotiated when signing with his only U.S. squad back in 2007.
Although Beckham's announcement was full of excitement and promise, many media outlets report there are a lot of obstacles standing in the way.
CNN reports, "Beckham must wait to ensure his franchise meets the requirements over a stadium and financing before the MLS board can accept Miami as the league's 22nd club."
And another obstacle, the Miami Herald reports, might be tougher to change. "Even with Beckham's star power … a new team in Miami remains risky. Fans here are notoriously flaky."
This is, after all, the second MLS franchise attempt for Miami. The Miami Fusion folded in 2001 after four seasons.
So far, no date is set for when Beckham's new team would enter the MLS.
