MUMBAI: During an exclusive interview with AFP on Wednesday, David Beckham expressed his astonishment and pride at having Lionel Messi signed with his Inter Miami franchise, describing it as a significant contribution to American soccer and the MLS.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder, who was in India as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, admitted that seeing Messi, the Argentinian World Cup winner, listed in the Florida team still feels surreal.
Reflecting on this incredible addition to his team, Beckham shared, “It’s truly unbelievable when someone tells me that Lionel Messi is part of Inter Miami. Having the best player in the world on our team is a source of immense pride for me as an owner.”
Beckham highlighted the impact of Messi’s presence beyond the field: “Bringing Leo to America, not just to Miami, was our deliberate move to elevate the game. He’s a game-changer and an inspiration for the next generation of soccer players. That’s precisely why we aimed to bring him here. Winning championships is a goal, undoubtedly, but inspiring the future soccer talent in America was equally crucial for us.”
The football icon recalled how Messi, previously with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, turned down lucrative offers elsewhere to join Inter Miami last July, post his triumph leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar.
Despite Messi’s exceptional performances, Inter Miami fell short of making it to the playoffs this season in Major League Soccer.
Beckham, known for his advocacy work and iconic status post his successful playing career, emphasized his long-standing association with UNICEF, dating back to his teenage years. “I first engaged with UNICEF at 17 in Thailand while with Manchester United,” Beckham recalled. “Over the years, I’ve noticed the disparity girls face in terms of rights and opportunities compared to boys. Our recent focus has been on addressing this inequality.”
Speaking passionately about the transformative power of sports, Beckham reiterated, “Sport, especially football, provided me with crucial values of leadership, teamwork, discipline, and confidence. I’ve witnessed firsthand how providing a football to children in different villages worldwide brings immense joy, momentarily helping them forget their hardships.”
Beckham, a father of four, expressed his belief in the potential of sports to positively impact children’s lives, aligning with his ongoing commitment to UNICEF’s cause.
Source: AFP