The Rule That Changed Football

The so-called “Beckham Clause” is a unique feature of Major League Soccer’s regulations that allows players to be temporarily loaned to other clubs during the winter break — without terminating their MLS contracts.

The rule takes its name from David Beckham, who, while playing for LA Galaxy, returned to AC Milan twice between MLS seasons to stay in top shape ahead of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

This clause was created to compensate for the MLS’s offset calendar, which runs from February to December, unlike Europe’s top leagues. During the offseason (December to February), players can train or compete elsewhere, provided they meet specific conditions.

How the Clause Works

The Beckham Clause allows players to go on short-term loans, usually lasting two to three months, to clubs in Europe, South America, or Asia. The loan must end before the start of the next MLS season and requires approval from the league itself — since player contracts are held by MLS, not by individual clubs.

The goal is to ensure players maintain fitness and competitive rhythm during the offseason. Over the years, stars like Landon Donovan, Thierry Henry, Robbie Keane, Omar González, and Kei Kamara have used this clause to compete in other leagues between MLS seasons.

The Messi Case: A Dream Return

In Lionel Messi’s case, this rule could open the door to a temporary return to FC Barcelona in January 2026, just before the start of the MLS 2026 season in late February.

The Argentine is reportedly considering adding this clause to his Inter Miami contract to maintain full fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

For Barça fans, the idea of seeing Messi once more in the blaugrana shirt — even for a short spell — has reignited hope. After all, Beckham did it… so why couldn’t Leo?