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The most high profile player to ever step foot onto a MLS pitch will play his last game soon as David Beckham announced on Monday that the 2012 MLS Cup will be his final game with the LA Galaxy.
Beckham joined the Galaxy midfield in January of 2007 and spent six seasons with the team, helping guide them to three MLS Cup Berths.
In a press release issued by the Galaxy, Beckham had glowing reviews for the state of soccer in America and his helping hand in growing the awareness and recognition of the sport.
"In my time here I have seen the popularity of the game grow every year. I've been fortunate to win trophies, but more important to me has been the fantastic reception I've had from fans in L.A. and across the States. Soccer's potential has no limits in this wonderful country and I want to always be part of growing it."
Beckham appeared in 98 regular season games with the Galaxy, scoring 18 goals and adding 40 assists - fourth most in club history. He is a three time MLS All-Star and is trying to help the Galaxy take home their second straight MLS Cup as they defend the title against the Houston Dynamo on Dec. 1.
It wasn't all smiles for the time when Beckham was in Los Angeles. The star midfielder went on loan twice to Serie A team A.C. Milan in 2009 and 2010. His 2009 loan caused him to miss the start of the MLS season, and teammate Landon Donovan publicly questioned his commitment to the team.
Beckham said this isn't his final hurrah with the MLS, and it appears he might be entering into some sort of ownership agreement in the near future.
"I've had an incredibly special time playing for the LA Galaxy, however, I wanted to experience one last challenge before the end of my playing career," Beckham said. "I don't see this as the end of my relationship with the league as my ambition is to be part of the ownership structure in the future."
MLS Commissioner Don Garber only had the highest of praises for the international superstar, citing him as an important part of MLS history.