This commentary from BBC pretty much sums up my feelings on the Beckham signing. Interesting, and virtually un-remarked-on in US media, that the Galaxy did not actually have to coerce or steal Beckham out of Madrid. Instead, looks like he was pretty much on his way out at Real. Also as expected, those who know something about futbol are more aware that Beckham's skills are definitely on the decline. Altho I've read a few US writers who seem understand that, even at his best, Beckham was not the kind of player who'd take over a game single-handed. And, in defense of Galaxy and MLS, the world superstar they signed has more of his chops left than Pele did when he came to the US. And MLS isn't throwing money around NASL style (that is, like a drunken suit at a strip club). At least so far. Much speculation, of course, that the money trucks will soon be rolling to every aging world futbol superstar. Hopefully MLS can keep from spending themselves into oblivion. Much speculation also afoot that much of Beckham's money is coming from side deals and not the team, like for college football coaches.