As I watched Gary Neville’s testimonial match against Juventus the other night, I enjoyed a strange feeling of sheer happiness to see David Beckham play in a United shirt again.
When he left Manchester to join Real Madrid in the summer of 2003, I was so disappointed. I thought I’d never see him play for the Red Devils at Old Trafford.
Yet, life is absolutely delightful sometimes. Beckham returned to Old Trafford. It was only a game, a friendly one, but it was priceless. For all United fans and for me. Seeing him play with a big smile on his face and crossing like he once used to, made me the happiest man on earth.
This is where it all began: Old Trafford.
He grew up in Manchester. He joined one of Bobby Charlton’s schools and eventually signed a Youth Training Scheme contract in 1991. He loved this club with all his heart and gave his best for them. His set-pieces are legendary in Manchester. He even was a mascot for the Red Devils during a game against West Ham. Here, at Old Trafford, Beckham developed into a world-class player. At Manchester, he would win the most important trophy of his career: the Champions League. Here, at Old Trafford, he will always be a legend. Here, he will always be loved. Perhaps, United’s most beloved no. 7 in the club’s history.
David Beckham is one of United’s sons, there’s no doubt about it. To return, even for a day, where it all began, where you heart has stayed all these years, is amazing. I’m speechless!
This is where his career should end. A final game at the Theatre of Dreams. A final trademark free-kick. And a final standing ovation for David, Manchester’s son.
P.S. Here’s a video of Beckham’s playing at Old Trafford in Gary Neville’s testimonial:
