David Beckham to take academy to Brazil

EXCLUSIVE
By Sean Hamilton Showbiz Editor 27/01/2008

David Beckham is about to attempt the impossible... teaching Brazilians to play better football.
The former England captain will fly to the South American country this week to launch a huge Beckham-branded football centre in Brazil's Natal coastal resort.
Beckham, 32, will announce plans for a sports complex bearing his name - comprising a David Beckham Academy, a mini-stadium, football pitches, training facilities and accommodation.
A source said: "He may be Goldenballs but it's like sending coals to Newcastle.
"Becks is very excited about the plan and has always admired the natural flair of Brazilian football."
Becks - who already has academies in London and Los Angeles - will be hoping to nurture new talent and discover the next Ronaldo or Ronaldino in a country where facilities are often basic.
The opening of the centre is also timed to coincide with with 2014 FIFA World Cup - hosted by Brazil.
Dad-of-three Beckham and his business partners are hoping the complex will be picked as a training camp by one of the competing nations - ideally England.
A Brazilian source said: "All of the arrangements are in place for the big launch."

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Date: 03/02/2008