Manchester United News

The business that allowed Beckham to earn more than 500 million dollars

The footballer marked a before and after in the history of the club.

By Axel Reyes

The footballer marked a before and after in the history of the club.
The footballer marked a before and after in the history of the club.

David Beckham's move to LA Galaxy in 2007 was initially met with scepticism. However, it proved to be a masterstroke, not just for his football career, but for his business empire. The former England captain's deal with the MLS club has yielded a staggering £500 million fortune, a feat that even Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr cannot rival.

The Galaxy Deal: More Than Just a Salary

While Beckham's initial salary at LA Galaxy was a reported £6.5 million per season, a 70% pay cut from his Real Madrid days, two secret clauses in his contract propelled his earnings to extraordinary heights.

One of the clauses allowed Beckham to take a percentage of the club's revenue, including merchandise sales, match tickets, and food and beverage sales. This clever negotiation boosted his annual earnings to over £50 million, transforming his time in Los Angeles into a highly profitable venture.

Expansion Team Option: A Golden Ticket

The second clause granted Beckham the right to purchase an MLS expansion team for a mere £25 million upon his retirement. This proved to be a golden ticket, as MLS franchise values skyrocketed in the following years.

Inter Miami: A £500 Million Investment

Beckham exercised his option to establish Inter Miami, which joined the MLS in 2020. With franchise values now ranging from £100 million to £325 million, Beckham's £25 million investment has multiplied exponentially.

Inter Miami's Value: A Testament to Beckham's Vision

Inter Miami is now valued at an impressive £585 million, a 2,240% increase from Beckham's initial investment. This remarkable growth is a testament to Beckham's vision and business acumen.

Beyond Football: A Business Icon

Beckham's success with LA Galaxy and Inter Miami has solidified his status as a shrewd businessman. His ability to negotiate lucrative deals and build a successful franchise has cemented his legacy beyond the football pitch.

A Blueprint for Success: Beckham's Impact

Beckham's business model has become a blueprint for other footballers seeking to maximise their earnings and establish themselves as successful entrepreneurs.

David Beckham's move to LA Galaxy was a game-changer, not just for MLS, but for his own financial future. His ability to leverage his fame and footballing prowess into a £500 million fortune is a testament to his business acumen and foresight.