LONDON — David Beckham's loan moves from the Los Angeles Galaxy to AC Milan were to ensure he played in his fourth World Cup for England.
An Achilles' tendon injury Sunday while playing for the Italian club is almost certain to end his international career, there will be no sign of Beckham bending free kicks in South Africa and those in charge of the millions he makes from commercial activities will have to rethink their plans.
An injury that happened with not a single opponent near him is a major blow for brand Beckham, which relies heavily on his ability to stay in the spotlight for soccer's biggest events.
Beckham, who has played 115 times for England, earned $16.5 million from personal sponsorship deals during his first season with the Galaxy. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was expected to be in Fabio Capello's England squad as a substitute capable of making an impact with his trademark free kicks and accurate passes.
While most of the world's greatest players prepare to go to South Africa, Beckham and his commercial advisers will be looking on, wondering what they can do to make an impact while he recovers. He receives a $5.5 million base salary from the Galaxy, but his absence from the World Cup could affect his image rights.
Beckham's World Cup record has been is a mixture of highs and lows, and his expected absence is another twist.
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