Post by Taxigirl on Feb 15, 2004 12:51:16 GMT
by Patrick Haond.
England captain David Beckham has revealed he came close to quitting football last year and says he has not talked to Sir Alex Ferguson since leaving Manchester United.
The Real Madrid star endured a difficult end to his Manchester United career and has explained how he once considered leaving the game behind in order to spend more time with his family.
"I was really close to finishing my career in the spring of 2003," admitted Beckham to L'Equipe.
"I was living a very difficult period in my life. I just wanted to remain with my family.
"It was a conjunction of several things, my parents' divorce, threats to my children and football. I just didn't want to be exposed to the outside world."
He also explained how he found it difficult to leave Manchester United after being at the club since he was a schoolboy.
Beckham departed Old Trafford in the summer after a falling out with manager Sir Alex Ferguson, a situation he admits he did not envisage after the pair had enjoyed so much success together.
"We have not talked since I left the club," the midfielder stated. "It is sad because at one-stage we had a father-son relationship. I had dreamt of a better end.
"When I left Manchester United I was moved deeply. All my life I will remain a fan and I still follow their results closely.
"I have some exceptional friends there and will remain in contact with Gary Neville and some of the other players there."
Beckham has made a huge impact since moving to Madrid and is now fully focused on life in La Liga.
The only drawback to Spanish life for the player has been the increased media attention which he feels is even greater than he endured in England.
"The Spanish people have been fantastic towards me and my family and playing in such a fantastic team is an extraordinary experience," he said.
"The only negative thing I have found since moving to Madrid is the paparazzi. I have no private life.
"I dream of being able to walk with my sons without fearing photographers who want to make money off our backs.
"The only place I can find peace is on the football pitch."
