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Get ready for another David Beckham invasion of America, folks!
The former England star and Los Angeles Galaxy player has exercised his option to become an owner of a new Major League Soccer franchise in Miami, a long-rumored move that was officially announced at a press conference Wednesday in Miami.
The footie ace delivered his long-awaited announcement confirming it as the future home of a Major League Soccer expansion team that he will own – alongside partners not yet named — and run.
Speaking at a news conference overlooking a sunny Biscayne Bay, Beckham told the over-zealous crowd: “This is an exciting time for myself, for my family and friends.”
As he told of his plan, the former England captain dangled also the prospect of superstars joining the new Florida franchise.
“Who wouldn’t want to play in Miami, live in Miami?” Beckham said of the players who are apparently already clamoring to become part of the 22nd and newest franchise in MLS.
“I’m getting messages saying, ‘When’s it happening? When can we get there?’ I know this city is ready for football.”
Beckham made a point of saying that “a lot of great people want to invest in this team and this club,” a remark greeted with cheers.
Though he declined to name names, saying it would be “disrespectful,” but is already pushing the team as a superstar brand by tempting Miami’s NBA MVP LeBron James to become involved.
“We don’t want public funding,” he said. “We will fund the stadium ourselves.”
Beckham added: “I’m going to work hard for this city and this team,” said Beckham, 39, dressed in a crisp grey suit in the wilting Miami humidity. “Everything I do is personal, and I want to make this my team.”
After his speech things got a little hectic and the 38-year-old had to cut his visit short for safety reasons as hundreds of well-wishers and fans turned up mobbing the star on arrival.
MLS, which will begin its 19th season in March, currently features 19 clubs with teams in New York city and Orlando set to join in 2015.
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