Victor Decolongon/Getty ImagesDavid Beckham isn't going back to football. No, he's going to keep playing soccer!
On the heels of their first Major League Soccer championship in the Beckham era, the British midfielder has decided to stay with the Los Angeles Galaxy, the team confirmed today.
Tom Cruise's favorite neighbor will reportedly be announcing his decision at a press conference tomorrow, but it's understandable that the Galaxy couldn't wait to share the good news.
"I am thrilled that David has chosen to re-join the Galaxy, especially as he had numerous options where he could continue his career," said general manager and head coach Bruce Arenas.
Added Tim Leiweke, president and CEO of team owner AEG: "There has been much speculation in the past four months on where David was going to play and we did not get caught up in this and remained focused on re-signing him."
Despite him being in the later stages of his career at 36, Beckham had his most productive year in the U.S. to date in 2011 and multiple international clubs were after him, including Paris Saint-Germain, which offered him an 18-month, $18.7 million contract.
You do the math.
But Beckham said throughout that what was best for his family would be the primary factor in his decision, and...the family loves L.A.!
"This was an important decision for me," acknowledged the married father of four. "I had many offers from clubs from around the world; however, I'm still passionate about playing in America and winning trophies with the Galaxy. I've seen first-hand how popular soccer is now in the States and I'm as committed as ever to growing the game here.
"My family and I are incredibly happy and settled in America," Beckham added, "and we look forward to spending many more years here."
Which is great for L.A., because the city prefers the real McCoy, not just giant billboards of him in his underwear.