The most popular English midfielder in the world arrived yesterday in Los Angeles and speculation begins about his impact on soccer popularity in the America. David Beckham, the former captain of England’s national team will be announced today as the newest member of the Los Angeles Galaxy. HDNet will air the live press conference, “MLS Behind the Net – David Beckham in America” will air at 1:00 p.m. ET and officially welcome Beckham to the MLS.

“This will be an elaborate truck based shoot,” said Darrell Ewalt HDNet sports producer. “We will have Glenn Davis and Marcelo Balboa on hand broadcasting this event.” The thirty minute press conference will bring media attention from around the globe to the Galaxy’s home arena, the Home Depot Center in Carson, California.

David Beckham is an icon. He is a showman and he creates a paparazzi frenzy wherever he goes. He is married to former Spice girl Posh Spice, and even was the inspiration for the critically acclaimed movie, “Bend it like Beckham.”

“We will carry the HDNet feed on our website using the Bam network,” said Justin Pearson communications manager for the LA Galaxy.

Beckham signed one of the most lucrative deals in American sports history when he decided to leave his former team Real Madrid. He signed a five year deal with the Galaxy that will earn him approximately $250 million over the next five years. His merchandising and sponsorship alone makes his arrival the biggest to the sport of soccer since Pele, joined the New York Cosmos in the early 70’s.

Pele in response to Beckham’s US debut said Beckham is a great player but he better be prepared for an improved American game, “But I advise him … it will be very difficult to play because the teams are very good. They mark very well. Be prepared, be in good condition because it is not easy to play in the United States. The football is now at a high level.”

Though it is unclear his impact on the game Beckham’s popularity is unquestionably strong. Beckham has already sold 250,000 of his new LA Galaxy Jerseys before his on field debut.

After the press conference his first game will be July 21 against Chelsea. ESPN will broadcast the game using 18 cameras to broadcast the big game. ESPN will also have the Becks-Cam, a camera that will follow only Beckham during the exhibition match. A three-hour pregame is also planned and it will focus on Beckham’s family and his amazing career.