Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Soccer: David Beckham Enjoys Posh Introduction in Italy

The ANNOTICO Report

 

David Beckham to play for AC Milan on loan from Los Angeles Galaxy  that begins Jan. 7 and expires March 9, said the move fulfills his dream of playing with a top Italian team.

 

 

Soccer: Beckham, Wife Enjoy Posh Introduction in Italy

 

Seattle Times

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Soccer Beckham to play for AC Milan on loan from Los Angeles Galaxy: David Beckham insists this has everything to do with soccer and nothing...

Beckham to play for AC Milan on loan from Los Angeles Galaxy: David Beckham insists this has everything to do with soccer and nothing to do with fashion and celebrity.

The 33-year-old midfielder also acknowledged Saturday that playing for AC Milan of Italy on loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer is a gamble.

Beckham, a former superstar for Manchester United of England and Real Madrid of Spain, said the move fulfills his dream of playing with a top Italian team and his goal of staying in shape during the MLS offseason in an attempt to keep a spot on England's team.

"I wouldn't take this opportunity if I didn't think that I could help the team and help the club," Beckham said during his introductory news conference at San Siro Stadium in Milan. "There are some great players out there. I don't expect to be starting on the first day because it doesn't happen that way."

England manager Fabio Capello has said it is not enough for Beckham to train with AC Milan ? he also must play in matches to be considered for the national team.

Beckham, who will wear No. 32, is bringing plenty of celebrity buzz with him to Italy. He is married to fashion icon Victoria Beckham and the player himself has done underwear ads for the designer Armani. Beckham said Milan's status as a fashion capital did not enter into his decision.

"No, fashion had nothing to do with my choice in coming to Milan," he said. "The red-and-black shirt was the reason I came to Milan, and the history behind the club."

Victoria Beckham sat in the front row during the news conference, wearing a short-sleeved dress, black gloves and stiletto heels. "Posh Spice" has recently signed as the spokeswoman for an Armani lingerie line.

The loan begins Jan. 7 and expires March 9, AC Milan vice president Adriano Galliani said. Beckham is to join AC Milan teammates at a training camp in Dubai on Dec. 29.