The Eastern Conference in MLS is about to become even more competitive with the news that Paris St-Germain’s owners Qatar Sports Investment (QSI) are interested in buying a stake in David Beckham ‘s MLS franchise in Miami.
The Eastern Conference already includes New York City FC and their middle eastern owners the Abu Dhabi United Group and it looks Beckham is going after NYC FC’s rivals to jump-start his Miami bid.
Beckham has close ties with the PSG owners after finishing his career with the French champions and a statement from MBU said:
“As Miami Beckham United lays the groundwork for launching a world class soccer club in Miami, our team has attracted interest from a number of potential partners.
“David Beckham, Simon Fuller and Marcelo Claure are evaluating these possibilities, with the goal of bringing additional resources and international expertise that draws players, staff and fans from around the world.
“At the same time, we are performing due diligence on our stadium site as we move toward finalising the acquisition of two privately held properties and a third county-owned parcel over the coming weeks.”
Can you imagine the star power that Beckham and Miami can attract, especially if backed by QSI’s money?
The challenge for MLS is keeping a competitive balance similar to the NFL and not turning the league in baseball with only a few clubs capable of winning every year.
The investment from QSI and Abu Dhabi United Group is great for the game, but what does it mean for the smaller clubs in the east like Columbus, Chicago and even New England whose owners are unable, or unwilling, to keep up with their deep pocketed eastern conference rivals?
