Beckham begins Milan love affair

David Beckham said he is already falling in love with AC Milan as he was officially unveiled after joining the Rossoneri on loan from his Major League Soccer (MLS) club Los Angeles Galaxy. "Amo l'Italia, sono felice qui," (I love Italy, I'm happy here) he told the press at San Siro.

March departure 
The 33-year-old former Manchester United FC and Real Madrid CF midfielder joins Milan officially on loan until June 2009, but the Serie A club and the player confirmed that he will return to the United States on 9 March. "His first game will be the one against AS Roma on 11 January and his last the one at Atalanta BC on 8 March," said Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani. "However, the door will be always open for him in the future."

'It's great' 
"I'm joining the most successful club in the world; it's a fortunate period in my career," Beckham said. "Obviously, my favourite team will always be Manchester United. Then I fell in love with Madrid and now I'm starting to fall in love with Milan as well. During my career I have been able to play with the greatest teams in England, Spain and Italy − it's great. I'm here to work hard and have fun. I don't want to impose my presence on the team. I know it will be difficult but I'm here to help my team-mates as much as I can.

Maldini example
"The history and the culture of this club were decisive factors for my decision," added Beckham, who will wear the No32 shirt. "Just look at a player like Paolo Maldini. He is 40 and still representing this club in the best possible way. He is part of the history of this club. It will be a great pleasure for me to play alongside him or players like Kakà and Ronaldinho.

England hopes 
Capped 107 times by England, Beckham admitted he asked the opinion of England coach − and former Milan boss − Fabio Capello before accepting the Rossoneri offer, as he is keen to stay in shape during the long MLS close season to protect his England international place. Meanwhile, Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti added: "Beckham's signing is very important for us. He is a great professional and can cover three different roles in midfield. I'm sure he can be very helpful in the ten games we will have him here."