Manchester United have long been the most popular team in the world, with fans ranging from the states adjacent to Old Trafford to the depths of China and Africa. But what exactly is it that makes so many foreigners support the club?
Fabio Capello marked the end of the international career of a sports legend with an off-the-cuff comment; “Thank you for helping me during the World Cup, but (Beckham) is probably a bit old,” he said.
Beckham’s career took a devastating turn earlier in the year when an ankle injury caused him to lose what many considered his last chance at a world cup. He became involved as a ‘special advisor’ to the manager and took an active inspirational role in the team’s training.
Which is possibly the worst part of the whole debacle; Capello didn’t even have the courtesy to consult Beckham before going public with his decision. One of the players from countries with the most caps woke up to the newspapers announcing the end of his career, an undeserved fate for someone who has given so much to the sport.
One of Beckham’s spokesmen confirmed that there had been no talk of retirement and that “he will always be available for his country, when he is able, and if necessary he will be there.” The manager said he had tried to contact Beckham but failed, commenting: “I think, I hope, that when David is well he can play here in a friendly at Wembley to say ‘Goodbye’ and ‘Thank you very much,'” Capello said. saying. “I won’t pick him for any more competitive games.”
Companies realize this and are willing to sponsor the broadcast of the game in their country, therefore more and more people can watch them. Soon enough, these fans have families and the children are raised as fans of the club, just like any child in Manchester.
The current England captain, Steven Gerrard, has also struggled not to leave Beckham behind in the halls of fame. in the set-up because I know he loves playing for England,” Gerrard said.
