We are the Real Champions of 2007

The most telling comment about David Beckham came from the late George Best, Beckham's most illustrious predecessor in the No. 7 jersey of Manchester United.

"David Beckham isn't a great," said Best. "He can't kick with his left foot, he can't tackle, he doesn't head the ball and he doesn't score many goals. Apart from that, he's all right."

I remember the quotes well -- I was there when they were uttered at a press conference before the 1999 FIFA World Player of the Year gala. Beckham had finished second in the poll of national coaches behind Rivaldo of Brazil but had declined to travel to Brussels to receive his runner-up award. Instead, in the great showbiz tradition, Best was wheeled out to collect it on Beckham's behalf.

In print, Best's assessment of Beckham seems harsh, particularly given the recent revival of his fortunes for club and country. But it was essentially true, even if it was delivered -- tongue firmly in cheek -- by a man keen to be remembered as an infinitely more talented soccer player than Beckham.

Therein lies the great Beckham conundrum. His fame and considerable fortune have never been matched by his talent. His career has been the ultimate triumph of style over substance. While Best's life descended into alcoholism and premature death in 2005, Beckham has made the transition from humble sportsman to global celebrity. And now Hollywood beckons.

More than 200,000 people gathered at Cibeles Fountain, Real Madrid's first stop after winning their 30th League title. Fans from all over Spain waved their flags in honour of the latest title. The Club organised the celebration and called it "Together we can!", the same slogan that was coined many weeks ago in order to round up the fan's support for the rest of the road to the League title. A light and sound show welcomed the players, as did the smiles and cheers of all the supporters.

The bus wrapped in a banner reading "Champions" arrived at Cibeles Fountain. There, the players jumped up and down together with the fans, while the P.A. system called for supporters to wave their flags to honour the players. But it wasn't necessary. The party in the heart of Madrid had been underway for hours.

Standing on top of an open-top double decker bus, the players watched the Madridistas and danced to the beat of "We are the Champions." Raúl, meanwhile, made his way to the crane that would carry him to the top of the Goddess Cybele, who he wrapped in a Spanish flag and scarf.

Miguel Torres bounced, Van Nistelrooy took pictures. Sergio Ramos recorded everything around him with a video camera. Cannavaro led the fans in cheers. Everyone had a great time during what was perhaps a once in a lifetime experience.

The Real Madrid anthem was played loud and clear, while thousands of white balloons were released into the sky.