Beckham on show in Madrid

New number
Beckham was introduced to more than 500 journalists from 25 countries at the club's basketball stadium in a ceremony shown live on television around the world. Madrid great Alfredo di Stéfano presented the 28-year-old midfield player with the No23 shirt.

Warm welcome
"Beckham is here because we believe in him as a footballer," said Madrid president Florentino Pérez. "David, welcome to the dream league." Beckham put pen to paper on his four-year contract yesterday after passing a medical that sealed his €35m move to the nine-time European Champion Clubs' Cup winners.

Dream move
In a short speech, Beckham said it was a dream to join the Spanish champions. "I have always loved football," he said. "Of course, I love my family. I have a wonderful life, but football is everything to me and joining Real Madrid is a dream come true. "

Time for holiday
He added: "I would like to say thank you to everyone who has come and joined me on my arrival. Gracias - hala Madrid!" Beckham will return to London for a three-week break before linking up with new Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz and the rest of the squad later in July.