Quotes after David Beckham's announcement that he signed a five-year contract with the Los Angeles Galaxy and will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season:

``I've played now for two of the biggest clubs in the world and played at the highest level for 15 years and now I think that I need another challenge.'' _ Beckham.

``There are so many great sports in America. There are so many kids that play baseball, American football, basketball. But soccer is huge all around the world apart from America, so that's where I want to make a difference with the kids.'' _ Beckham.

``David Beckham is a global sports icon who will transcend the sport of soccer in America. His decision to continue his storied career in Major League Soccer is testament to the fact that America is rapidly becoming a true 'Soccer Nation' with Major League Soccer at the core.'' _ MLS commissioner Don Garber.

``David Beckham will have a greater impact on soccer in America than any athlete has ever had on a sport globally.'' _ Timothy J. Leiweke, president and CEO of AEG, the owners of the Galaxy.

``It's great for our season ticket holders. It's great for our fans. It's tremendous for the league. He'll be a huge asset on and off the field.'' _ Toronto FC coach Mo Johnston.

``It's a shame it can't be at the beginning of the season, so you can't avoid him. Most coaches are probably saying ``give me my LA games early.'' _ Real Salt Lake coach John Ellinger.

``I don't think it's just about glitz. He wants to play on a winning team and be part of a winning organization and help build the game in the United States.'' _ U.S. Soccer Federation president Sunil Gulati said.

``He could come back (to England) and be an OK player, but there he's a bigger fish in a smaller pond. Still, it's a nice place, isn't it? Sunnier.'' _ Peter Stennett, 32, a sales director in London.

``He's rubbish. And if you're rubbish, you go to the States.'' _ Steve Didcott, 36, a consultant in London.

``Sad to see him go. It's out with the old and in with the new.'' _ Luis Aguilar, 34, wine merchant in Madrid.

``I'm sad, but having heard about the size of the deal, I'll stop crying for him,'' _ Ricardo Egues, 38, bank official in Madrid.