In his first four games in Italy, David Beckham has proven that, yes, he still can bend it like himself. The above goal was Becks’ second for Milan, and coincided well with England manager Fabio Capello’s trip to visit him. It’s early days, but it has become clear that he can compete at top-level. The question now, at which even Beckham has hinted, is why return to ridicule in the soccer backwater of Los Angeles?

If his welfare is decisive, Beckham should stay in Milan. One of the most prestigious clubs in soccer, Milan is familial, well-recompensed and veteran friendly. They have the soccer equivalent of the Phoenix Suns’ rejuvenating magic hands, allowing him to play as long as he wants. Serie A, with its slower pace and emphasis on technique, suits his physically-declined game. With Milan he gets another chance for silverware, domestically and in Europe. Basically, it’s the move he should have made two years ago.

Most important for him, it eases his selection for the England squad. His match fitness won’t be a concern. He won’t have to fly halfway across the world. With one more appearance, Beckham ties Bobby Moore’s record of 108 England appearances for a non-goalkeeper. If he maintains his form, Beckham probably would make England’s squad for the 2010 World Cup.

There is the money, but he loses little by moving.  Milan can easily match his tangible contract, $32.5 million over five years.  Adidas will not shun him for moving to their biggest club.

Beckham is under contract, but it’s not ironclad. He has an out clause after the 2009 season, giving him extraordinary leverage. If LA Galaxy forces him to come back., he can leave next winter to join Milan for free.

Some will claim that Beckham has a responsibility to stay in this mess. Why? He fulfilled his primary task, which was to make MLS and AEG money and increase exposure. He had the best selling jersey in the world, of any sport. The club earned sponsorship deals and traveled abroad for lucrative friendly matches strictly because of him.

Where Beckham failed was on the field, which was not his fault. His best skill is creating chances for others with precision passing. That works awesomely when the receiving end players are Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Ronaldo, not $20,000 per year players named Josh and Troy.

The Galaxy scored more than any other team last season.  Their problem was their defense allowing two goals per game, not Beckham.

As bad as the Galaxy were, they will be worse next year, especially without Landon Donovan.  If Los Angeles cared about competition, they would treat Beckham’s departure as a blessing. Without his distracting circus and necessitated flash rebuilding, they could implement a serious developmental plan.

David Beckham’s been loyal and classy to MLS.  They should treat him with the same decency.  If he still bends it with the best, that’s where he belongs.