David Beckham spoke about the World Cup at Fanatics Fan Fest, and also talked about his experience playing alongside Kaká.
Talking about the best moment
“The World Cup always brings out a lot of amazing players, with many previously unknown players representing their countries. Teams like Cape Verde also get the chance to prove themselves on the World Cup stage. Their performance was outstanding and will inspire young people to keep going. Especially in the United States, where there's the NBA, American football, and baseball, the World Cup really provides a strong boost,” Beckham said.
"Playing in the World Cup is really special; it's the ultimate goal you can achieve in your career. I've always enjoyed playing for my club, but for me, nothing is more important than representing my country, whether it's a friendlies or the World Cup. My first World Cup didn't start well, but it was still a fantastic experience. I scored my first international goal against Colombia on my birthday, which made it even more special. I have many precious memories from it. Everyone wants to win, for the jersey and for the fans. Every kid's dream is to lift that trophy."
Talking about Kaka
"He's not just a great player, he's one of the best you can meet. But as a player... at Milan, we had Nesta, Seedorf, Gattuso, Inzaghi, Kaká, Robinho. I was a little nervous when I first entered the dressing room, but Kaká did everything very professionally. I just watched him and learned how to be a professional player. These top players become top players not just because of luck, but because of hard work and dedication. I was lucky to play alongside him. I can compare him to Zidane because people go to the stadium to watch Zidane and see how he handles the ball. I can say the same to Kaká."
Talking about the final
“I’ve never lifted the World Cup trophy. But the best teams always make it to the final. Speaking of Spain, they played very well against France, eliminating them and putting on a perfect performance. Argentina’s loss to England was hard for me to accept; it was a special match. It was like the Milan derby: tough on the pitch, tough in the stands. Most players won’t experience that again.”
“I still collect some things, like jerseys. I have 95% of my collection now, and I always try to exchange jerseys with the best players on the field. When I was younger, I was also a card collector. Bryan Robson is my idol; he wore number 7 for both Manchester United and England. I once exchanged my jersey with Zidane, and I was very happy to be able to play alongside and compete against Zidane.”
Talking about the legacy of the World Cup
“When I decided to join the LA Galaxy in 2007, there were only two dedicated stadiums in the United States; now there are 27. Major League Soccer is getting better every year. This country is really enjoying these moments. Our goal is to make the sport more accessible in the future.”
Who will win the World Cup?
“My God. I played in Spain, so I have a deep affection for them, and they performed exceptionally well in this World Cup. But Argentina has Messi. Just like I said about Kaká, I would say the same about Messi. He is a great player and a very good person. He is very polite and considerate.”
