David Beckham sent shockwaves across the soccer world when he joined the MLS in 2007. 16 years ago, the MLS was barely at the level it is today, but despite that, Beckham believed in the vision of growing soccer in America. Things, however, have changed drastically today. One of the greatest players in the world Lionel Messi is all set to make his MLS debut and, just like DB7’s impact in the late 2000s, fans believe that Messi will also have a similar impact.

David Beckham shares an eerie coincidence between his and Lionel Messi’s MLS Debut

After winning La Liga in his last season with Real Madrid, David Beckham joined MLS side LA Galaxy on a 5-year deal where he eventually scored 18 goals in 98 appearances. Fast forward to 16 years and exactly on Beckham’s debut date is when Messi will be making his debut against Cruz Azul.

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“I’ve just heard that on Friday you know the moment that Leo walks onto the field is 16 years to the day that I have played for L.A for the first time against Chelsea,” reminisced David Beckham. But he quickly shifted the spotlight from him to the team and explained how a legendary moment like this is what soccer culture in America needed.

“So it’s a huge moment but it’s what we always wanted for our club. We’re not just talking about you know the eyes of everyone in this country we’re talking about globally and that’s what you want,” explained the former Manchester United player. 

Nevertheless, the soccer legend issued a caution to the wind by suggesting Messi would need time to adapt to his surroundings.

David Beckham believes Messi will need time to adapt to MLS

Lionel Messi is joining the MLS fresh off winning the World Cup with Argentina. He was also in dazzling form with PSG. So in no way is he near retirement or out of form. Hence fans across the world expect Messi to light up the league, but David Beckham believes the 7 time Ballon d’Or winner will take some time to adapt to the league. Both from a physical and tactical standpoint.

“He looks sharp, he looks great, but he’s going to need time to adapt as well,” explained the former Real Madrid star. He later hinted that Messi may not make a full match appearance against Cruz Azul. “Leo will play some part of the game, but that will be down to the coach, and it’ll be down to Leo to decide if he’s ready because we know that he’s been away for a few weeks with his family,” shared Beckham.

What did you make of Beckham’s comment? How excited are you for Messi’s MLS debut? Let us know your thoughts below.

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