D.C. United got a chance to face David Beckham last year when it played Real Madrid to a 1-1 tie in Seattle. Now United will face one of the world’s most recognizable athletes on a yearly basis.
None are falling into the trap of thinking the 31-year-old English winger, who has inked a deal to join the MLS’ Los Angeles Galaxy, is washed up.
“He’s a phenomenal passer of the ball, and he’s a phenomenal ball-striker when it comes to free kicks and balls whipped in,” said United midfielder Ben Olsen. “That alone is going to be so dangerous because we’ve no one to compare with the balls he whips in and the free kicks in this league. [Former United star] Marco [Etcheverry] was somewhat close, but you’re dealing with one of the best, if not the best free-kick taker of all time in soccer.”
Olsen called the signing a win-win for all involved. It is also another headline grabbing event in what has become one of the most eventful offseasons in the 11-year history of both MLS and D.C. United.
“It would rank up there with No. 1 for just the biggest movement of both our team and league,” said United senior vice president Stephen Zack. “Trading Freddy [Adu] was another pivotal moment for us this offseason. There’s been a lot of ups and downs for this league over the years. This would certainly rank No. 1 when it comes to the positives.”
