When David Beckham signed a massive six-figure contract (5 years for $250 million, most from a large share of team revenues) with the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007, it was a ground-breaking moment for the sport at home and abroad. Not since the mid-1970's when Pele was lured to the once-prominent North American Soccer League to play for the New York Cosmos had American professional soccer seen such stardom. Having played for Manchester United and Real Madrid - two of the world's top clubs - against the best competition, British midfielder known for his strong right leg and deft passing ability immediately became the face of Major League Soccer and an important U.S. soccer ambassador. He took on the responsibility of increasing the sport's domestic popularity and growing the MLS brand, and succeeded valiantly on both ends. He lead the Galaxy to back-to-back MLS Cup titles in 2011 and 2012 before returning to Europe. With his flashy style on and off the pitch, Beckham certainly left an indelible mark on soccer in the U.S. Featured here is Beckham's game worn road blue jersey from his MLS debut rookie season in 2007 with the L.A. Galaxy, a piece of history that is incredibly hard to find in the hobby.
David Beckham made his highly anticipated L.A. Galaxy debut July 21, 2007 in an exhibition vs. Chelsea, a familiar foe from his days in the English Premier League with Manchester United. He played in his first Major League Soccer game on August 9, but it wasn't until August 18 that he got his first start. The Galaxy played at the New York Red Bulls and sported their blue long-sleeve road jerseys. Beckham assisted on two goals in a 5-4 loss, and this could very well be the actual jersey he wore in his first MLS start! This particular Adidas (size L) long-sleeve collared navy pullover with 3 orange stripes down the sleeves and orange trim on the body has the scented combo of sweat and cologne. Ladies, take a deep breath. An orange Adidas logo, the Galaxy logo patch and their "HERBALIFE" sponsor adorn the front. "BECKHAM" and "23" in white letters and numbers outlined in black are ironed into the back. The MLS logo appears at the base of both numerals. There is an MLS logo patch on the right sleeve. Inside the shirttail next to the laundry tag is an Adidas manufacturers tag dated "07/07" to confirm the 2007 season in which it was issued. Beckham would typically wear the yellow captains band on his left sleeve, but it is not included with this jersey. Wear is evident. There are several darkened areas where perspiration has settled into the 'Clima365' polyester fabric. The blue material has bled into the white 'E' and '2' on the back, another likely result of sweat and game use. A chalk mark can be found on the right sleeve, the end of which shows staining in the cuff. And finally, there is an obvious aroma of cologne that only someone like David Beckham would have on his game jersey.
Photo evidence indicates that the only other game Beckham wore this exact style blue long-sleeve was a December 1, 2007 exhibition in Wellington, New Zealand. He was known to change his jersey at halftime and wear cologne during games; no surprise there. Enjoy this special piece of history, soccer collectors!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThwMdyjol1U