More on the Pepsi Deal
Further information and quotes regarding the split between Becks and Pepsi:

Beckham's new career path begins just as an old one ends, with the conclusion of his 10-year promotional deal on behalf of PepsiCo. The break was described by both sides as being mutual. A Pepsi statement added: "We wish David well with the many projects he is pursuing and look forward to the possibility of partnering together with him again someday."

Beckham said: "I hope everyone who has seen the work Pepsi and I have done together enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed making it and, who knows, there may yet be another chapter in this long relationship." Source

PopWrap Top 10 Pop Culture Thank Yous
The NY Post has a pop culture blog called Pop Wrap, and to wind down 2008 Pop Wrap compiled a list of Top 10 Pop Culture Thank Yous. David and Armani made #8 on the list for the Emporio underwear ads. Just a bit of fun for the New Year! Check out the list here.


NEW Gallery: Becks Trains Some More
We have a new gallery of photos from a second training session with AC Milan in Dubai. Another glimpse at the new tat:



Happy New Year!
Wishing you & yours a happy and safe New Year. It's been a pleasure bringing you David Beckham news this past year, and I look forward to much more to come! Enjoy the holiday; we'll catch you in 2009!

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham photos, training

NEW Gallery: David Trains with AC Milan
We've got a new gallery of photos of David training with Milan in Dubai. And the new tattoo's revealed in a couple pics!




David's Reception in Dubai
While his arrival at the airport was quiet, David drew crowds during training in Dubai:

As the sun faded over Al Nasr football stadium yesterday evening, football supporters clutching paper and pens waited to welcome the Italian football team AC Milan, and one rather high-profile English player.

At just before 5pm the team’s white coach pulled into the grounds, sending fans into a chorus of whoops and screams as they jostled to catch a glimpse of David Beckham.

It was the moment many had been waiting hours for. Beckham waved from the coach window to children perched on their parents’ shoulders and on the top of railings.

When asked how he was enjoying his time in Dubai, the former England captain said: “I love it, it’s a very beautiful place.” Read more here

Maldini impressed by Becks

AC Milan captain Paulo Maldini has expressed his admiration for David Beckham after he completed his first training session with the club. [...]

Beckham is due to return to LA Galaxy in March but with the MLS season finishing in October it means the midfielder has not played competitively for over two months.

Despite this fact, Maldini is confident that the 33-year-old will be match fit again soon after he joined up with the rest of the squad at a training camp in Dubai during the Italian winter break.

"Beckham is a great champion, but we shouldn't forget that he has come into a great team and a great club like Milan," he said.

"We players don't care what his life is like off the pitch, we have found a lad who has not trained for two-and-a-half months.

"But I have had the chance to talk to him and I noticed his determination and his great desire to put himself to work immediately to return to playing as soon as possible." Read more here

Becks Shows Support for Gerrard
Fellow England international Steven Gerrard was jailed following a violent incident at a bar, and several of his teammates have sent him messages of support. I'm not sure how they figured this out (how does The Sun ever figure anything out?), but The Sun is reporting Becks & others sent Gerrard text messages:

Soccer star Steven Gerrard received texts of support from England’s top players after being charged with assault and affray.

David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, John Terry and Rio Ferdinand wrote messages to the Liverpool skipper.

The four players — senior figures in the England team — told Gerrard to “keep your chin up” after hearing he must appear before magistrates next month in connection with a bar brawl.

An England source said: “They wanted to tell Stevie they’re behind him. They know what it’s like to be under the spotlight.

“You stick by your mates — especially in times of trouble — and footballers are no different.” Read more here

And yet another award...
...goes to David for being the fittest man in 2008. This time it's Heat magazine, who surveyed readers and determined that in the eyes of the fans, Becks has the fittest male celebrity body. Source

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham photos, david beckham tattoo, england, steven gerrard, tattoos, training

Becks Arrives in Dubai
AC Milan & David have arrived safe and sound in Dubai, in the midst of super tight security. There was little fanfare surrounding his arrival, unlike the usual fan gatherings at airports; instead he and his family were taken away by security quickly after landing.

More about the trip:

In Dubai, Beckham and the rest of the travelling Italian shindig, including such superstars as Brazilians Kaka, Ronaldinho and Alexandre Pato, ex-Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko and Italian legends Filippo Inzaghi and Paolo Maldini, will train through the New Year and into the first week of January.

The club will then culminate its Dubai jaunt with the winner-takes-all Emirates Airline and DTCMsponsored Dubai Football Challenge Cup match against German Bundesliga side Hamburg on January 6 at the airlines’ brand-new sporting hub The Sevens. Read more here.

Berlusconi - Becks should play

AC Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi admits he would play David Beckham in the side straight away. [...]

Berlusconi said: "I would immediately play him. With Beckham, Pato, Pirlo, Seedorf, Kaka and Ronaldinho, a goal is guaranteed."

The Milan owner has confirmed that the loan signing of Beckham came as a shock and was made possible by chief officer Adriano Galliani.

"His signing has also been a surprise for me. It has been a gift," he said. Source

Ronaldinho: Beckham must stay with AC Milan
I have absolutely no reason why Ronaldinho is insisting that Becks must stay in Italy, this quote is given by Tribal Football without context. I can only guess he means that in order for David to really flourish at Milan he has to stay for at least 4 months to get accustomed. Nevertheless, here's what the Brazilian star said:

Ronaldinho is excited about playing with David Beckham at AC Milan.

The Brazilian said of the on-loan LA Galaxy star: "I am very happy with the arrival of Beckham. He can help us win. If he does well, he must remain more than four months.

"In Italy, I'm still in the process of adjustment. But things are going very well in this time. The objective is doing everything possible to help Milan and also the Selecao. I hope to be among the best for many years." Source

David Beckham Is the Fittest of Them All
Fitsugar blog has bestowed another title to the endless heap of fan accolades: Fittest Male Celebrity of 2008. It's the first year a sport figure has been included in the competition, so kudos to him. Story here.


Gossip Girl's Ed Westwick Flustered by Becks
Here's another bit of fluff for fun:

Gossip Girl star Ed Westwick is no stranger to manly beauty. [...] And yet the 21-year-old British-born actor went all aflutter in the presence of man's man and king of the metros, David Beckham, 33.

Westwick confesses to UK magazine Reveal (via Radar) that he was feeling cool as a teenage TV-star at a New York party. Classically handsome David Bowie was seated at the adjacent table and devilishly gorgeous George Clooney shook his hand. Young Westwick took all of this attention in his stride, until his bladder sent him in search of relief.

"I went to the toilet, and there was David Beckham. I couldn't say anything, I just ran out. A friend tried to persuade me to say, 'Hello,' but I couldn't do it. It was ridiculous. There have been a couple of times now that I've been in the same room as him, but I just can't go up to him. I can't do it." Source

New Tattoo?
I've found 2 sources (more emerging, mostly gossip & tabloid) that David's received another tattoo from his favorite tattooist Louis Malloy. According to reports he got inked over Christmas in the UK. It's the Biblical phrase 'My son, do not forget my teaching but keep my commands in your heart' in Hebrew. The tattoo is supposedly on his left arm...we'll likely get a peek at it, if it's true, during his AC Milan loan spell. Maybe even training pics from Dubai! We'll keep you posted, no pun intended. Source 1 & Source 2


The Life & Career of Becks: Papography
A "papography" (paparazzi biography, presumably) video - 3 minutes of biographical info set to photos and video, much of it fairly recent. You'll not learn much of anything new, but it may be some footage you've not seen before. Enjoy!

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham tattoo, david beckham videos, loan, tattoos

Victoria Dismisses Crazy Beckham Rumors
I know some of you don't like Victoria references, but as this applies completely to David & their family in Milan, I thought those interested might like to see how David's spokespeople and Victoria's aides are correcting the rumors recently spread by the press. Check it out here.


Answer a Becks Question, Win a Phone
Now is holding a contest; 3 winners will get a Sony Ericsson phone. Entry is answering one question about David's recent bungee jumping adventure in NZ. The question is "What did David Beckham do right before he braved a 134ft bungee jump in New Zealand recently?" If you know the answer and want to enter hop on over to the contest page here.


Milan: Beckham Can Play Until 40

When David Beckham left Real Madrid for the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007, it was assumed he was waving goodbye to Europe and top-tier club football.

Less than two years later, however, the England midfielder is back on the continent after completing a loan switch to AC Milan, where he will spend the Major League Soccer off-season.

The Italian giants are eager to make the deal permanent, and club medic Jean-Pierre Meerseeman believes Becks, who turned 34 in May, can play on until 2015.

The Sun quoted Meerseeman as saying: “Beckham could go on for another five or six years.

“His cardiovascular readings are very good. His basic fitness is excellent. All he needs to do now is to alter his training programme slightly.” Read more here

Labels: ac milan, contest, david beckham

Hope you all continue to enjoy a wonderful holiday season!


Becks's Latest Blog
It's a great round-up of a very busy year...

Hi Everyone,

Merry Christmas!

Well, it’s been another amazing year.

I began 2008 by training with Arsenal to keep my fitness levels high and while I was back in England I was honoured to receive the Football Writers Tribute Award.

I also met the Prime Minister Gordon Brown and showed him around my Academy, which was a very proud moment for me and the coaching staff.

Next, as part of my UNICEF work, I visited Sierra Leone to try and highlight child mortality rates in the developing world. It was a very humbling experience, but an inspiring one.

Before the end of January I travelled to Brazil to announce The David Beckham World of Sport, which I hope will give Brazilian children the same access to top-class facilities and coaching as they get at my London and LA Academies.

After playing our pre-season friendlies in Hawaii and the Far East the MLS season got underway in March, but not before I was called up to the England squad for the first time under Fabio Capello. I still find it hard to believe that I won my 100th cap with England. It’s such an amazing honour that I am incredibly proud of and despite losing to France I will always remember the match in a positive light.

Unfortunately, we didn’t get a win in our first MLS match of the season either, but in our following game against San Jose Earthquakes I scored my first MLS goal, which was fantastic! Despite the win we just couldn’t get on a run of good results, even though we did top the Western Conference for a while, and our form suffered, so in the end we didn’t make the playoffs, which was disappointing.

As the year went on I continued to be called up to the England squads and although I didn’t start in all the games, I did get to captain the team again in the friendly against Trinidad & Tobago, which was a great honour. I’ve said before I’d never turn my back on England and as long as the manager wants me and feels I can do a job then I’m happy to be part of things and pass on my experience where needed.

Away from football, I was delighted to part of the Olympics handover ceremony in Beijing in August. I’m a keen supporter of the Olympics coming to London in 2012. It will have an incredible impact on the East of London and the country, it is definitely time we had the chance to host a global event again.

Now Christmas has arrived again and I’m really looking forward to spending time with my family and enjoying the holiday before I experience some time in Italy with AC Milan early next year and keep my fitness levels up before heading back to the Galaxy in time for the start of the 2009 MLS season in the spring.

So, I’d like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Take care,

David

LA Galaxy: A Year In Review
Goal.com has produced a month-by-month review of the LA Galaxy for 2008. It's an interesting but unflinching read. You can check it out here.


Mourinho: Beckham 'More Than A Player'
"The Special One" has spoken out about David, who's now playing on the opposite side of Milan from Mourinho's Inter...

Inter coach Jose Mourinho has mixed feelings regarding the arrival of David Beckham in Italy.

On the one hand he believes that having the England international in Serie A raises the profile of the league, but on the other he would rather not see such players succeed, as that would damage his Nerazzurri side.

"I'm happy. I want my league to be the best," he told Inter.it.

"I want my league to be important. I want my league to be not just important in Italy, but also in the world. In England I was proud that the Premiership was reaching levels of popularity around the world. I think we are doing something important in Italy because the Serie A is much better than it was last season.

"To have one like David Beckham is fantastic. (Smiles) I hope he doesn't do very well, because he plays in the enemy, but I hope he brings a lot of attention with him. He's more than a player, he's something special in the world, not just in the world of sport, and I'm really happy.

"Him, Ronaldinho, (Zlatan) Ibrahimovic - these are the kind of players we need to have in the Italian league to make it again a good commercial product abroad because I think that's the next step." Read more here

Beckham ends deal with Pepsi

Footballer David Beckham has ended his deal with Pepsi after a 10-year association with the brand.

According to thesun.co.uk, the 33-year-old Beckham is giving up his two million pounds a year contract to focus on other work with companies such as Vodafone and Armani.

He said: "I have nothing but good memories of my association with Pepsi. I've played a gladiator, a cowboy, a surfer, and worked alongside Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez as well as some of the biggest names in world football. I hope everyone who has seen the work enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed making it."

Pepsi returned the gratitude by saying that association with Beckham was "one of the most enduring partnerships in global brand history. David's football legacy will live on, and everyone at Pepsi will continue to be passionate about his success." Source

Fabio's Ultimatum

Fabio Capello has given David Beckham an ultimatum ahead of his loan spell with Milan: that the former England captain must play regularly over his two-month sojourn with the Italian club if he is to regain his place in the national squad. Read more...

No UEFA Cup for You!

Milan have warned loan-signing David Beckham that he should not look to play a part in the UEFA Cup.

Beckham, 33, is eligible to play with the Italian giants in Europe after joining on loan from LA Galaxy until March.

But Milan vice president Adriano Galliani insists the midfielder may not be used, as he will not be at San Siro to feature in the latter stages.

Galliani said, "Beckham is in good physical condition.

"He will be here with us for nine Serie A games and will also play some friendlies.

"We will then consider whether to include him or not in our UEFA Cup squad because eventually he would only be able to play up to the first and second leg of the last 16 of the competition.

"We will make this decision by the end of January." Source

Security Headache

DAVID BECKHAM will be surrounded by a ring of steel when he flies into Dubai next week amid fears of a terror attack.


He will spark the Middle East state’s biggest-ever security operation when he arrives on Monday to make his debut for AC Milan.

Spies at MI6 fear an al-Qaida attack on the United Arab Emirates could happen “at any time”.

And security forces fear Beckham, 33, is an ideal high-profile target for Muslim fanatics.

He is due to make several public appearances before playing in a friendly match against Hamburg on January 6.

One security source said: “It’s a huge headache.

“We are planning as if it is a state visit. Security measures could not be any higher. Much more to continue reading here...

Toasting the year that was
More reflection on 2008 in soccer - the Washington Times has a sports piece looking back on the noteworthy moments of the past year. David earned both jeers and cheers on their list. Read it here, if you wish.


FA Anti-homophobia Video
The FA have a video in the works aimed to eradicate homophobia in English football. They're planning a number of footballing celebrities to participate and are hoping that David will be included! We'll keep you posted if/when we find out the status of the project.

A video showing football stars speaking out against homophobia will be released next year as part of an unprecedented drive by the sport's governing bodies to tackle a sharp rise in abuse and discrimination.

The video will be shown in cinemas, on TV and in stadiums in an attempt to rid terraces and pitches of homophobic chants and slurs, the Guardian can reveal.

The Football Association (FA), the Professional Footballers' Association, the players' union, Kick It Out, the sport's diversity and inclusion campaign, and Peter Tatchell, of gay rights group Outrage!, began work on plans for the video at the end of last month. It is hoped that up to a dozen players, including David Beckham, Rio Ferdinand, Sol Campbell, David James, Wayne Rooney, Ashley Cole and Cristiano Ronaldo, will be persuaded to take part. The video is due to be released in March and could be shown in schools if the FA wins the backing of the Department for Children, Schools and Families. Read more

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham blogs, england, la galaxy, loan

Happy holidays to all our wonderful readers at David Beckham Fans Online!

To celebrate, we've got a new gallery of pictures: The Beckhams Dine at Claridges on Christmas Eve.

Enjoy! :)

Labels: david beckham, david beckham photos

Fabio Cannavaro Has Faith In David Beckham

Fabio Cannavaro and David Beckham were teammates at Real Madrid during the 2006/07 La Liga campaign. [...]

"The arrival of Beckham at Milan is not just a matter of marketing," the Italian international assured, according to tuttomercatoweb.

"David is outstanding. He is can still do great things and I am sure in the three months he is at Milan he will show his true value." Read more

Beckham: I Wanted To Play For Milan Against Udinese

Milan's latest recruit David Beckham admits he would have liked to play against Udinese on Sunday night.

The Englishman saw the 5-1 trouncing from the stands with his wife Victoria as the Rossoneri gave a him a spectacle of calcio. [...]

"I would have liked to play because it's impossible not to have fun when you play at a great team," Beckham told Sportmediaset.

"It was nice to see the children give me my new Milan shirt as well as feel the fans' affection.

"I played at Manchester United, Real Madrid and now Milan, and the pressure is the same." Read more

NEW Galleries!
Two more galleries for your viewing pleasure:
Becks Presents Shirt to Kids
Becks Shops in Milan


Press Conference Clip
Here's a video clip from David's press conference on Saturday:

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham photos, david beckham videos, loan

David and Victoria Debut in Milan
Coverage of David's and Victoria's welcome to San Siro by fans has been rather muted at best. The most flattering description I have found has been here. However, as you can see from the video below, it certainly wasn't dire.



The article linked above also describes in detail the press conference on Saturday.


New #32
The originally reported #75 squad number for AC Milan has been replaced by #32.


Becks on Record about Caps

David Beckham has revealed he will do "everything possible" to match Bobby Moore’s record number of caps for England and hopes his loan move to AC Milan can help him achieve his dream.

The 33-year-old equalled Sir Bobby Charlton’s 107 caps for England in a World Cup qualifier against Belarus in October and is just one appearance off Moore’s record.

"Being on 107 caps...well you know how much it means to me, I hope it continues and will do everything possible to make it continue.

"After Milan I’ll be going back to LA, working hard and hopefully still playing for my country." Source

Beckham Is In Good Condition - Galliani

One of the reasons Beckham joined Milan was to stay in shape for the England national team set-up under Fabio Capello and Galliani revealed that Beckham has been taking care of himself.

"We're satisfied that he is in good physical condition," he explained. "He'll be here for nine league games and then we'll see if he will play in the UEFA Cup as he would only be available during the round of 16." Read more here

Becks on Realistic Expectations

David Beckham has admitted he might struggle to get into AC Milan's first team during his loan spell with the Italian giants as he was unveiled to the world's media at the club's training ground.

The former England captain stressed he did not expect to "arrive here and change everything."

"It will be difficult to get in the team as it always is at a big club," said Beckham, whose loan spell runs until March 8 when he rejoins Los Angeles Galaxy for the start of the new Major League Soccer season.

"It is tough at any of the biggest clubs in the world to go straight into the team - it just doesn't happen.

"But right now I'm in better form than was expected of me. I hope to train hard with my new team-mates. But I don't want to upset the balance that's already here, I want to help the team. Read more here

Milan dazzle in front of watching Beckham

AC Milan seemed inspired by the presence of new loan signing David Beckham watching on from the stands as they blew away hapless Udinese 5-1 at the San Siro on Sunday night.

That ensured they moved into the three-week winter break, after which they will be able to call on the services of the former England captain, in third place in Serie A, nine points off leaders Inter Milan. Read more here

David Beckham Park?

A report calls for Manchester to have a David Beckham park, Edinburgh's library to be named after JK Rowling and for British Olympic medal winners to have streets named in their honour. War heroes and community workers should also be recognised.

John Healey, the Local Government Minister, will call on councils to introduce the new naming policy saying it is "great for local democracy and local pride". Read more here

FA wants Beckham and Prince William to front England's 2018 World Cup bid

Lord Triesman, the Football Association chairman, is to invite David Beckham and Prince William to become the public faces of England's 2018 World Cup bid when the body applies to host the competition in the new year. The FA and bid chairman has confirmed he will offer the duo prominent roles in England's attempt to convince FIFAifa that it has the infrastructure and finance to host its first World Cup since 1966. With the 2010 World Cup being held in South Africa and Brazil in 2014, FIFAifa are expected to return to the northern hemisphere and possibly Europe for 2018. Read more here

NEW Galleries!
Lots of photos for you to see:
David Lands in Milan
David Leaves the Betulle Clinic
AC Milan Press Conference
David & Victoria out in Milan
David's New #32 Shirt
David in New Adidas Ad

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham photos, david beckham videos, italy, loan, victoria beckham

In Sports, Who Has It Worst?

A bit of press sympathy for Becks, at last:
David Beckham wins by default. At least as far as Major League Soccer is concerned.

And it’s not just because of his looks. The Milan-bound Brit shoulders the most pressure in the MLS.

Why? Well, how many other MLS players can you name? Or recognize? Read more here

Becks in Milan Tomorrow
David's set to be unveiled in Milan tomorrow (the 20th), although his loan deal won't begin until the beginning of the January transfer window. He'll be welcomed at the Stadio San Siro tomorrow with a press conference at 7pm local time. It's also expected he'll be present to watch AC Milan take on Udinese on Sunday. Find out more here.


AC Milan & Becks to Play Rangers

David Beckman may soon get a free trip back to Britain.

The England midfielder, who is to join AC Milan later this month on loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy, will likely travel to Glasgow with his new Italian team for a friendly against Rangers on Feb. 4.

"David Beckham has arguably been the most famous footballer in the world in recent years, and supporters of all ages will be eager to see him in the flesh," Rangers chief executive Martin Bain said Thursday. Read more here

Brylcreem Poll: Most Stylish Man of 80 Years

David Beckham is the most stylish man of the last 80 years, according to a poll.

Becks, 33, was voted top ahead of film legends Cary Grant and Sean Connery.

More than 20 per cent of the 1350 people polled named the footballer - famed for his changing styles - as the world's most stylish man. Read more here

And in other fashion news...
...Entertainmentwise readers voted Becks second best dressed of 2008. For those interested, you can find the blurb here.


A Look Back on Becks in America
On the eve of his Milan move, Splash news has put together a 3 minute review of David's American adventure.

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham videos, fashion, friendly, la galaxy, loan, rangers

Gallery: Becks Rubs Shoulders with Celebs at Lakers Game
Earlier this week David was photographed with numerous celebrities at another Lakers game, and we've got a gallery for you! Check it out here.



Gallery: Sun Military Awards
David and Victoria taped a message for a recipient of a Sun Military Award for overcoming adversity. The double amputee soldier Ben Parkinson is a big fan of the Beckhams, so they wished them well in a message displayed at the ceremony. We've started a gallery for photos from the message here.


Former Employees Cleared in Theft
Remember a couple months ago when all the news was the theft of Beckingham Palace, resulting in some of the Beckhams' items ending up on eBay? The suspect former housekeepers (a couple and their son) have been cleared of charges in the case. (source) Just an update for anybody who may be interested!


Beckhams in London for Christmas
The Beckhams have arrived in London to spend Christmas in the UK. They'll visit in the country until David (and by all accounts now Victoria) leaves for 2 months in Milan. You can see photos of the arrival at Heathrow in the Daily Mail here, we'll try to get them in a gallery.


Milan Pushes for 2010?
The pressure for Becks to remain at Milan is mounting daily. The latest:

And if David Beckham were to remain at Milan, not just two months, but a lot more, maybe until 2010? Let’s say it all, on this story of the 60-day loan just to train a little and then return to Los Angeles Galaxy for the MLS championship as if nothing had happened, seems strange to all. Of course it could end up this way, but it would be curious, not to say sad.
Gattuso said so himself, yesterday in his first interview since his knee operation: "This thing about Beckham is strange, maybe it would have been better and nicer if he remained the year. Maybe he will play good matches or he settles in a special way, but then he has to go. It would upset me and the fans".
In fact Milan and Beckham are also considering other possibilities, one being that David will stay in rossonero until the end of the season, and at this point until June 2010 when there will be the World Cup that will be the end of his career playing for his country. Read more

Speaking of Milan
For what it's worth, AC Milan striker Marco Borriello has made some...interesting comments about what he's looking forward to with David's return. Apparently Borriello wants to see if David's Armani ads were airbrushed. He told the Sun, "I must admit I have a dressing room curiosity over Beckham." Well, good luck with that Borriello!

Labels: ac milan, beckham with family, beckingham palace, charity, christmas, david beckham photos, lakers game, loan

Beckham and the Conquest of America
A new book has been written about David's first season in the USA. I can't give any endorsement as I haven't read it, but the book's blog can be found here, and more info about the book can be found here. Apparently proceeds from sales will go towards charities.


Beckham needs games, says Capello
This is a bit of a rehash on old themes from interviews given when the Milan deal was announced, but:

England coach Fabio Capello says Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham must play competitively while on loan at AC Milan to earn an England recall.

Beckham, 33, will move to the San Siro on 7 January to try to stay fit during the Major League Soccer close season.

He was left out of England's win over Germany in November but could return for February's friendly against Spain.

"If he plays (for Milan) he will be a possible for us," said Capello. "If he doesn't play, he will not be with us." Read more

David Beckham arrival gives AC Milan hope

His arrival comes at the perfect time for Carlo Ancelotti, the AC manager, whose side were without injured midfielders Gennaro Gattuso and Kaka for last night's 4-2 defeat at Juventus. "At this point, Beckham becomes even more useful and important to us," Ancelotti said.

Beckham may not have the defensive qualities of Gattuso, but this has not prevented his future manager from expressing disappointment that Beckham’s stay is so brief. "We hope he will fall in love and that sentiments prevail,” said Ancelotti. "Unfortunately, at this time, it looks unlikely he will stay longer because I have seen his advertising contracts and they are scary." Read more

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, england, fabio capello

David Beckham's big finish

David Beckham will make his first acquaintance on Saturday with the Milan Lab, the high-performance sports science department of Italy’s most glamorous football club.

There, Beckham will take his medical before joining Milan for a scheduled loan spell of two to three months, his absence from his employers, Los Angeles Galaxy, coinciding with the Major League Soccer (MLS) close-season. Beckham’s aim is to preserve his match fitness for England’s next internationals, his ambition to participate in Milan’s pursuit of the scudetto, the Italian league title, and their progress in the Uefa Cup.

The medical should be fine; Beckham has always been a fine athlete and jet lag is not a long-term condition. Read more here

Helen Mirren's Beckham crush

Dame Helen Mirren thinks David Beckham is the most beautiful man in the world.

The 63-year-old actress insists beauty can be applied to men as well as women and singled out the soccer star as an "Adonis".

She said: "I am just not beautiful. Keira Knightley is beautiful and Kate Moss - it's about having a pure aesthetic.

"And men can be beautiful. The most beautiful of all, the Adonis of our time, is David Beckham. Everything about his face is just…" Read more here

Becks on tour of duty

DAVID BECKHAM will go on AC Milan’s tour of Dubai but will return to LA Galaxy for the start of their MLS season next March.

Becks, 33, is joining the Italian giants for a short spell in a bid to stay fit enough for England duty.

A spokesman for the star said: “David will arrive in the UAE with Milan on December 29.” Source

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, loan

David's Latest Blog

Hi everyone,

Well, the Galaxy have played their last match this year and now all the players head off on their winter breaks. We had a great trip to New Zealand and capped it all off with a strong performance against the Oceania All Stars. There are some very good players, who come from the Islands, so hopefully the match helped to raise the profile of some of these players and soccer in general over there.
As for the Galaxy, the result and clean sheet sends everyone off on a high and we’lldefinitely look to build on the confidence gained from this next year.
Obviously, while the rest of the squad take a well-earned rest I’ll be heading off to Italy to join up with AC Milan in the New Year, which I’m really looking forward to. It’s an exciting prospect and if it means that I’m at full fitness when the Galaxy get back together then I’ll be happy.
That’s all for now.

Take care,

David

Squad Number and Jersey Released
David's number for AC Milan, and his new jersey, have been released. He will be #75 on the roster. You can buy the jersey now - check out sources and loads of photos from Google's shopping search here.


David's Porche on eBay
Speaking of buying things: a Porche 911 that once belonged to Becks is now up for bidding on eBay. According to this article, it's believed to be the first Porche he purchased, bought in 1997. So if you're in the mood to splurge on more than just a jersey, you know where to look. Current bid is a mere £50,200!


Beckham Goal Favorite Fan Memory of Premier League
I'm pleased I took part in this survey because a Becks moment won the title of all-time favorite memory for fans of the EPL:

Some interesting results came out of a worldwide survey, sponsored by Barclay’s, of 32,000 football fans across 185 countries.

The fans voted David Beckham’s goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon in 1996 as the fans’ favorite moment since the league began in 1992. More here

Labels: ac milan, auction, david beckham, david beckham blogs, la galaxy, loan, new zealand

Just a brief update for you guys today, news is pretty slow!

Here's more about the charity work Becks did in NZ:

[...] on the Saturday, Decemeber 6th, Beckham participated in a game to benefit the New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Furthermore, the warm-up match benefited New Zealand-based charities such as KidsCan and Find Your Field of Dreams – a new charity set up by athlete John Walker to make a positive impact the lives of young people in South Auckland by providing them with opportunities to live healthy, active lifestyles and pursue a positive pathway through sport and recreation. Read more here!

Labels: charity, david beckham, new zealand

NEW Galleries
We've got a gallery of photos from the recent match in NZ for your viewing pleasure here.

We also have one of David going bungee jumping in NZ...story below!


Becks Bungee Jumps
134 feet and two very nervous clubs couldn't stop David from taking a plunge off the Harbor Bridge in Auckland. Shirtless despite the cold water, David took the challenge as part of a team bonding experience. Find out more here.


Bodyguard in Paparazzi Punch-Up
This comes down the wire dated yesterday. One source states Becks will now face police questioning in the event.

After being pursued by paparazzi today in Beverly Hills, the soccer stud confronted a photographer, with a fight breaking out moments later between one of the soccer star's bodyguards and the shutterbug.

According to an eyewitness, Beckham went up to the car and tried to get the driver to come out. When the driver declined, Beckham's bodyguard went to the passenger's side and punches began flying.

The scuffle did not go unnoticed by the authorities. "They started fighting right in the street in front of the police station," an eyewitness tells E! News.

"Once the bodyguards and the paparazzi started fighting, David ran back to the car and he and Victoria drove off...The cops finally came and broke it up." Read more

David Gifts Community-Minded Boy with Surprise Photo

Superstar footballer David Beckham gave a Black Country schoolboy a special thank you for his litter-picking efforts.

Ex Summerhill Primary School and Alexandra High School pupil Dylan Johnstone received a surprise signed photograph from the LA Galaxy and England star.

It follows 12-year-old Dylans hard work over the Summer combating litter in his neighbourhood, organising recycling audits with households and encouraging others to keep Tipton tidy. Read more

Beckham can't bend recession
For those who noticed the lower-than-expected attendance at the Galaxy game in Auckland, and for those who've seen the press accuse David of being responsible (saying he's lost his star power and can no longer fill seats), this is a thoughtful article about the real causes for the poor ticket sales.


Galliani hoping Becks will stay

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani hopes David Beckham will extend his stay with the Rossoneri once he has settled in at the San Siro. [...]

"I don't know how long his adventure (with AC Milan) will last. For the time being it will be two-and-a-half to three months. We hope he will fall in love and that sentiments prevail, but he has so many advertising contracts," admitted Galliani to Sky Italia.

"At this time, it looks unlikely he will stay longer because I have seen his advertising contracts and they are scary."

Beckham, who is under contract with the LA Galaxy until 2012, is set to return to the United States in March next year for the start of the Major League Soccer season.

Milan are looking forward to the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star's appearance in Italy, though.

"He will arrive on December 20," said Galliani. "He will undergo a medical and then hold a press conference before attending Milan v Udinese.

"Then he will go on holiday for a week before starting his new adventure with us in Dubai." Source

Labels: ac milan, charity, david beckham, david beckham photos, la galaxy, loan, new zealand

David's Latest Blog, from NZ

Hi everyone,

Well, the Galaxy are in New Zealand again. I can’t believe it’s been a year since I was last here already! The people are so friendly and welcoming that it makes everyone feel at home and adds to the enjoyment of being here.
Of course, we’re all really looking forward to the match. It’s brilliant that players such as Christian Karembeu and Edgar Davids could be playing as they’ve done it all and I know the guys in the team can’t wait to get on the pitch to face them. The Oceania team is also mixed with people from the Islands like Papua New Guinea, Tahiti and the Soloman Islands, so the match is definitely important in raising the game of soccer in this part of the world.
Even though it’s only a friendly it’s also our last match of the year and we’re aiming to finish on a high give the fans an entertaining match on Saturday. I’ll let you know how it goes.

That’s all for now,

David

Galaxy 3 - 0 Oceania
The Galaxy easily defeated the Oceania All-Stars squad 3 to nil. It was a very encouraging performance by the Galaxy, and particularly heartening for me to see Becks playing with such pluck. He had some stellar moments.

Get a match re-cap from ESPN here and the Galaxy site here.

It wasn't all nice, however; Becks was the recipient of some unnecessarily rough tackles and the Galaxy went down to 10 men when Josh Tudela was sent off. You can find out more about the less friendly side of this, well, friendly here.


Galaxy's NZ Welcome
Check out this video of the Galaxy's very unique welcome at the airport in NZ. Becks certainly gets his share of the super-duper-zoom-close-ups.


NZ Fan Videos
Here are some videos of Becks taking the pitch at the Oceania game. Part 1 & Part 2

Compilation of highlights from the game, filmed by a fan.



NEW Gallery: Galaxy Train in NZ
Here's a new gallery - 4 pages of photos of the Galaxy training ahead of the match against Oceania!


Leiweke Worried About Beckham
The Galaxy's owner Tim Leiweke has spoken out to the Guardian about his concerns re: David's loan move to Milan...

Now that Beckham is looking to join AC Milan on loan, it is perhaps not surprising that Leiweke would be somewhat anxious about the situation.

Beckham has an opt-out clause with the Galaxy that he could exercise to leave his five-year contract early.

"I worry about David Beckham and is he going to Milan or not," Leiweke acknowledged to the Guardian newspaper.

Besides fretting about Beckham specifically, Leiweke was also concerned about the Galaxy's poor record this past season.

"[I worry] if can we get the Galaxy to a point where we can compete for the title next year," siad Leiweke.

The issues often rob the executive of sleep, he admitted. Read more

Labels: ac milan, david beckham, david beckham photos, david beckham videos, la galaxy, new zealand

Tonight (or technically, tomorrow!) at 1.30am ET the Galaxy take on the Oceania All-Stars team in Auckland, NZ. To lessen the confusion due to timezones that is 1.30am ET on Saturday December 6th.

TV: In America you can catch the match on FSC.

Online: Often www.tvunetworks.com broadcasts FSC on one of their soccer channels (labeled "soccer"). You have to visit the site & install the plugin or software. Alternatively, you can check out the listing here closer to game time. (They are already listing a TVU feed in addition to the Galaxian Rams Sopcast.) Be sure to visit this page to get any software you'll need in advance of kickoff.

Good luck to the Galaxy!

Lots of buzz from NZ so let's get straight to it! I'll post the links for watching tomorrow's game closer to game time.

Schoolgirl Gets Becks Soccer Tips

A seven-year-old schoolgirl today got some priceless footballing advice from the world's highest paid soccer player. [...]

At one stage, during heading practice, Beckham bent down to Jemma, the youngest of the group, and whispered something in her ear.

It seemed to work because, having just missed a previous attempt with a header, she made firm contact with the next one.

Jemma later said that the soccer megastar's advice to her was "keep your eye on the ball". Read more about David with the kids here

David Pays $9000 for Obama Print to Feed NZ

David Beckham stole the show in Auckland on Thursday night where his $9000 winning bid went to Kids Can celebrity auction.

Beckham beat off frenzied interest for a print of the 44th President of the USA.

Then he floored Auckland’s glitterati and world soccer superstars Edgar Davids, Mark Bosnich and Christian Karembeu by donating the print back to be re-auctioned where it fetched another $9000.

Beckham is known the world over for his stance on anything to do with children highlighted by his role as UNICEF ambassador.

Kids Can Charity has fed and dressed over 20,000 of New Zealand’s underprivileged children in the last two years and aims to double their operation in 2009. Source

Free NZ Game Tickets

In a bid to fill seats at David Beckham's appearance with his LA Galaxy soccer team, Auckland Regional Council is expanding a two-for-one deal to include fans who have already bought tickets.

The council said the aim was to "create an outstanding atmosphere and occasion on Saturday night".

Just 14,000 tickets had been sold for the Galaxy's match against the Oceania All Stars at Mt Smart Stadium, which has a capacity of around 25,000, prompting the two-for-one sale to boost numbers. Read more & get specifics here

Labels: charity, la galaxy, new zealand

Lots of videos & photos for you today!

Starting with the best, Becks helps a female paparazzo who's fallen over in the rush to get photos of him when they were in NYC.


The Beckhams at Tom Cruise's apartment prior to seeing 'All My Sons'.


A bit Victoria-centric, but discusses the Beckhams' life here in the USA.


NEW Galleries
They keep on coming!
Becks Arrives at Auckland Airport
Becks Arrives at Training with LA Galaxy


Heroes on Display
Here's an article about the Galaxy's arrival in NZ and what Friday's (Saturday's there) match will bring.


Becks on Rugby
Being that rugby's a big sport in NZ, he was asked about it at a presser.

Rugby was not the game for David Beckham.

The football superstar didn't enjoy following in William Webb Ellis' shoes by picking the ball up and running with it.

"I tried it when I was a kid, I tried it when I was in school but it wasn't for me. It's an amazing sport but definitely not for me," Beckham said at a press conference in Auckland today.

But the sport did feature in his souvenirs when he visited Wellington last year and bought his kids some All Blacks gear.

"They loved that. They wore those for quite a few months," Beckham said. Read more here

A Hard Worker

The former Manchester United star and England captain told a news conference Thursday that of all his qualities as a player, he hoped his work ethic was most memorable.

"I've always wanted to be known as a hard worker on the field and successful," said Beckham, whose LA Galaxy club side plays an exhibition match in Auckland on Saturday.

"I believe I've always worked hard in every game and every training session that I take part in." [...]

"I feel I've done everything to be successful in each club that I've been at," he said. "I just want to be successful with the Galaxy now."

Beckham gave no indication his career is nearing its end and said he hoped to add to his 107 international appearances for England.

"But I take each game as it comes," he said. "It's important that I keep my fitness up and that's one of the reasons I'm going to Milan for a few months." More here

Labels: david beckham, david beckham photos, david beckham videos, la galaxy, new zealand, victoria beckham

Becks Lands in NZ

David & his teammates in the LA Galaxy are in NZ safe & sound. Here's a recap of their arrival:

International football celebrity David Beckham arrived in Auckland on Wednesday morning to a boisterous welcome before LA Galaxy's game in Auckland on Saturday.

A tired looking Beckham stood surrounded by his team-mates as they were greeted by a rousing haka party and about 200 fans when the LA Galaxy landed at Auckland International Airport about 5.30am.

The England and former Manchester United player posed for a team photograph and signed a few autographs before the team were whisked off to their Auckland hotel Read more here

Additional articles about the arrival here and here.

You can also see a video about the arrival here.



Luring David with Nando's?
Here's an amusing little story about a business tactic being employed in NZ - attempting to lure David to shops with the smell of his favorite grilled chicken (Nando's). Check it out here.


NEW Galleries
I promised more galleries and our great gallery helpers have delivered! Now we have:
Beckhams Leave Serafina
Beckhams Dine at Cantinori
Beckhams See 'All My Sons'
Becks with the Boys
Becks with Boys at the Game

Labels: david beckham, david beckham photos, david beckham videos, la galaxy, new zealand

NEW Galleries
The gallery elves have been busy! We have new galleries for:
Becks Leaving Hard Rock Hotel Dinner at Nobu
David & Victoria at Saks Fifth Avenue
Becks Picks the Kids up from School
The Beckhams Dine at Cantinori
The Beckhams at Dylan's Candy Bar
...and many more to come thanks to the Beckhams' extended NYC romp!


Top ref apologises for Posh joke
Dutch referee Dick Jol has published a new autobiography including a tale of a joke gone wrong made to Becks during a Champions League game:

Jol recalled: "I awarded United a free-kick outside the penalty area. Walking back and counting my 10 steps I put the Zagreb wall in place.

"At the same time I spotted David Beckham was nicking more than two yards with the ball. He wanted to take the free-kick, but I had spotted what he was doing so I walked back to him.

"I moved the ball back and said, 'Sometimes you have to listen to your wife, sometimes you have to listen to the ref'.

"As soon as I said it, I thought, 'For God's sake, what have I just done? How could I be so stupid?' "I saw how David looked at me. Read more here

Unconfirmed: Becks Offered Ownership in AEG
This is just a rumor and/or speculation at this point, but some sources are reporting that when he retires from football, Becks will take part ownership in the super company AEG - owners of the LA Galaxy and other MLS teams.

Megabucks Becks is being prepared for a top executive role in giant company AEG, whose president is LA Galaxy owner Tim Leiweke.

The England midfielder has been promised the lucrative boardroom job when his playing days are over.

And he is likely to become a big investor in the firm which owns and operates stadia worldwide, including London’s Millennium Dome and O2 Arena.

He is already being schooled in high finance by Leiweke’s daughter Francesca, 22, a business graduate from California’s Stanford University. More here

Tom Cruise Offers Friendship/"Brotherhood" Ceremony
I don't know what to make of this and apparently neither does anyone else. Tom Cruise has reportedly decided to give Becks & Posh a special gift by arranging a sort of "wedding" ceremony for him & Katie Holmes to profess vows of brotherhood and sisterhood to David and Victoria...don't ask me, I'm confused about the entire concept! Get the scoop here.


Calendar 2009 Video Remix
You've seen the photos from the 2009 David Beckham calendar already, but this is a nice video remix of the photos set to music. I thought you might enjoy a little eye candy!


Kaka Looks Forward to David at AC Milan - Flamini, Not So Much

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Beckham is set to start a threemonth loan spell at AC Milan in January to keep up his fitness during the American close season. And Kaka hopes that period will be extended.

The Brazilian superstar said: "When David comes, he will see what Milan is like and he can maybe stay a little bit more, maybe until the end of the season or, who knows, for another year.

"I like him, he is very positive. He has a lot of talent with the ball. It will be very nice to play with him, I'm very happy."

But Mathieu Flamini has warned Beckham he will have to get used to life on the subs' bench when he links up with Milan.

The former Arsenal man said: "David Beckham is a great player but he is coming to a team with some great midfielders and we all want to play." Source

Labels: ac milan, aeg, david beckham, david beckham and tom cruise, david beckham photos, david beckham videos, mls, victoria beckham