Manchester United icon David Beckham has voiced concerns over some of the current players’ disrespect towards fans, likening their behavior to previous eras in the club’s history. Beckham, who donned the United jersey from 1992 to 2003 and celebrated a Champions League victory in 1999 under Sir Alex Ferguson, refrained from naming specific players or detailing instances of disrespect. However, he drew attention to the contrasting camaraderie and unity displayed by Paris Saint-Germain, a team currently competing in the Champions League final.
“Their philosophy has changed and they all stuck with it and I think that they’ve created a team that are together,” Beckham commented regarding PSG during a live broadcast titled Beckham and Friends Live on Paramount+. “They are together as a team; every individual, every player is running for every [player], and that’s what you want. When you’re a fan, that’s what you wish to see, and that’s … not what we see at Manchester United.”
(Their philosophy has changed and they all stuck with it and I think that they’ve created a team that are together.)
When pressed to clarify whether his comments were directed at management or the players, Beckham indicated that he was addressing the players.
He expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s tough times, but I don’t like seeing some of the things that are going on at the club. On the pitch is what counts, but I’m seeing a lot of things off the pitch that are unacceptable in my eyes, both as a fan and a devotee of Manchester United.”
Beckham also reflected on the attitudes of the players during his career, asserting that his generation understood the significance of representing the Manchester United badge.
“I’m speaking about how some players are behaving. You must represent the badge, and that’s what it’s about. We were part of a team that was very respectful. We appreciated what it meant to play for Manchester United. We knew what the badge represented. Wherever we went, be it Europe or Asia, we respected the fans. They show up, pay money, and want to interact with you—signing autographs and taking photos. Yet, I don’t see that. I’m not saying it’s all players but one or two are showing disrespect, and I find that troubling.”
(I’m talking about sometimes the way players are acting.)
The current season has been particularly challenging for United, marking their worst performance in Premier League history, with a disheartening finish in 16th place and no qualification for any European tournaments next year. Additionally, they suffered a disappointing defeat to Tottenham in the UEFA Europa League final, compounding their frustration during a post-season tour of Asia.
