In a stunning revelation, Brazilian football icon Roberto Carlos has named Manchester United legend David Beckham as the finest player he ever shared a pitch with, placing him above the legendary French midfielder Zinedine Zidane.
The Ultimate Teammate
Carlos, widely regarded as one of the greatest left-backs in history, made the bold claim during an appearance on The Obi One Podcast. When asked to select the best player from his illustrious career, his answer was immediate and unequivocal. 'Beckham, of course Beckham,' Carlos stated. He elaborated that while Zidane was 'top,' Beckham was a close friend and a role model whose consistency and team-first attitude set him apart.
The former Real Madrid defender highlighted Beckham's unparalleled work ethic, describing him as 'the best in training and the best during games.' Carlos praised the Englishman's relentless running, incredible passing range, and the heart with which he played every match. He emphasised attributes that fans might not always see but were invaluable to his teammates on the pitch.
Beckham's Legacy at United and Madrid
David Beckham's status as a Manchester United icon is firmly cemented. Between 1992 and 2003, he made 394 appearances for the club, scoring 85 goals and providing 121 assists. His tenure at Old Trafford was decorated with major honours, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the historic UEFA Champions League triumph in 1999 as part of the treble-winning side.
His move to Real Madrid in 2003 saw him become a 'Galactico' alongside Carlos, Zidane, Ronaldo, Luis Figo, and Raul. Despite the constellation of stars, Carlos believes Beckham shone brightest. 'In the four years of the Galacticos, in my opinion, Beckham was the most consistent and the best,' Carlos asserted. He noted that Beckham would attack, defend, and pass—doing everything the team required.
During his 159-game spell in Madrid from 2003 to 2007, Beckham contributed 20 goals and 52 assists, helping the club secure the 2006-07 La Liga title and the 2003 Supercopa de España. He later played for LA Galaxy, had loan spells at AC Milan, and ended his career at Paris Saint-Germain in 2013.
Zidane's Stellar Career
The comparison makes Carlos's endorsement even more powerful. Zinedine Zidane is one of football's most celebrated figures, renowned for his spells at Juventus and Real Madrid, and for leading France to World Cup glory in 1998. For Los Blancos, Zidane played 227 matches between 2001 and 2006, scoring 49 goals and making 67 assists. He also won the Ballon d'Or in 1998, an individual accolade Beckham never claimed.
Yet, for Roberto Carlos, pure talent was matched and surpassed by Beckham's unwavering consistency, professionalism, and complete dedication to the collective cause. This unique insight from a former teammate adds a new layer to the enduring legacy of David Beckham, confirming that his impact on fellow professionals was as profound as his impact on fans worldwide.
