Community Corner

Beckham, Criticized at One Point by Redlands Native, Ends Playing Career

David Beckham, the former Los Angeles Galaxy star, pop culture icon and global pitchman, may have played in his final competitive soccer match on Saturday in France.

Beckham, who was famously criticized by L.A. teammate and Redlands native Landon Donovan as a poor captain not fully committed to the Galaxy in 2007 and 2008, eventually helped the Galaxy win two MLS championships before he signed earlier this year to play for Paris Saint-Germain.

Beckham announced his retirement last week and teared up during PSG's final home match, a 3-1 win over Brest at Parc des Princes. PSG manager Carlo Ancelotti told reporters it is unlikely Beckham will play in his team's final match May 26 at Lorient.

The 38-year-old London native won championships with Manchester United, Real Madrid, the Galaxy and PSG. He retains an option to become an MLS team owner at a below-market price.

Donovan took time off from soccer earlier this year and returned after the start of the Major League Soccer season. He is not on the roster for a U.S. training camp starting May 26 in Cleveland, in preparation for five matches that include three World Cup qualifiers in June.


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