The latest move in David Beckham’s football career has pleased Parisians and will put smiles on the faces of children in need — the soccer icon has signed a deal with French league leaders Paris Saint-Germain and promised his entire salary to charity.
The 37-year-old decision to sign with Paris was a let-down to some Australian fans who were hoping the midfielder might side with an A-League team like Perth Glory, Melbourne Heat and the Central Coast Mariners, who were all reported to wish to welcome Beckham to their clubs.
But even the most hardened and loyal A-League followers could not be disappointed in Becks’ decision to donate his entire salary to a children’s charity.
“We decided on something that is quite unique — I won’t receive any salary,” he said.
“We have decided that my salary will go towards a local children’s charity in Paris. And that’s one of the things we are very excited and proud to be able to do.”
The contribution would be worth an estimated $140,000 per week, totalling approximately $2.85 million over the course of the five-month contract Beckham have just signed.
Although he’s only signed until the end of the season, Beckham, who has been without a club since leaving Los Angeles Galaxy last year, has indicated he would consider staying on longer, dispelling rumours his career may be coming to an end.
“I’m 37 years old and was offered a lot of offers, more now than I’ve had in my career, and at my age. I’m honoured by that. I chose Paris because I can see what the club are trying to do. I can see the players the club are bringing in,” he said.
“I might have only signed a contract until the end of the season, but I consider myself to be part of this club in the future, in helping this club to grow, in helping the French league to grow, in helping this club become one of the biggest powerhouses in football.”
The father-of-four and husband to pop star turned fashion designer Victoria Beckham will be based in Paris until at least June 30 when his contract expires while his family remains in London.
