David Beckham recently announced – along with a group of investors – that he was set to enter into the MLS as one of the franchise owners after deciding to exercise his right. Beckham was allowed the ability to start MLS franchise once he had retired – when he originally signed a contract with LA Galaxy in 2007. After retiring from football following a six-month spell at PSG, Beckham is all set to invest more than $ 25 million of his own money into a franchise, which is expected to pull in stars from all over the world.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star also revealed that the franchise plans to use its own money to build a 25,000 seater stadium. This is unlike some of the other franchises in the MLS, which depend upon the council stadium as a means of the home ground. This move was initially welcomed from various quarters, but now opposition has come from several billionaires. Shippers have also expressed their concern about the new ground, which Beckham revealed that was about to come in downtown Miami. This was one of the most valued real estate properties in this area, but it also prevents the expansion of the city’s port according to several groups.

“We cannot jeopardise well-paying jobs, like crane operators, longshore workers, and mechanics, for low-paying stadium jobs, such as concession sales,” said the Miami Seaport Alliance. “This is one of four sites under consideration, there’s nothing concrete, there’s no recommendation pending,” said Miami-Dade mayor Carlos Gimenez. However, Beckham’s attorney has rejected suggestions that the stadium would interfere with the port expansion plans.

“The plan doesn’t interfere with port operations. It will likely generate more revenue for the port in the shorter term than other concepts that have been discussed,” said Beckham’s attorney in response to the allegations.