The 2011 MLS Champions LA Galaxy returned home yesterday, after a two week tour of the Asia Pacific region and Australia. The MLS Champs were undefeated on their trip, defeated an Indonesian Selection 01-, the Philippines National Team 1-6, and the Melbourne Victory in penalty kicks 2-2 (3-4). David Beckham played more than 80 minutes in what could have been his final game with the LA Galaxy.
In large part to Beckham's presence, the Galaxy were well received in all three countries. The Galaxy visited a children's hospital in Melbourne, and an orphanage in Manila. While they were in Jakarta, LA Galaxy manager Bruce Arena received a phone call from President Barack Obama congratulating him on his MLS Cup win.
Now that the 2011 season is officially over, it's time to start looking ahead to next year's roster. Gregg Berhalter retired, Adam Cristman in renegotiating, and Juninho's loan status needs to be straightened out. There's also the status of David Beckham to fret over. However, we now know whomever is on the roster will be participating in a preseason tournament in Tuscon.
The former Spring Training home of the Chicago White Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks will be used this preseason to host four MLS teams (Galaxy, Real Salt Lake, New York Red Bulls, and New England Revolution) as they get their rosters ready for next season. The tournament is called the Desert Diamond Cup, and will conclude four days before the Galaxy have to take on Toronto FC on the road in the 2011-12 CONCACAF Champions League.