How do you feel about your three-month loan at AC Milan?
It's very exciting. I like Italy very much and I'm honoured to be at AC Milan. I played for important teams in England and Spain and now I have the chance to play for the most successful club in the world [so Milan claim, based on their overall trophy haul]. I am already falling in love with this club!

You could have had your pick of most clubs. So why here?
Because they are a club with a great history, who have players like Paolo Maldini - who is 40 but still plays at an exceptional level. There are developing youngsters - like Alex Pato - and many great champions like Ronaldinho and Kaka. Also, Carlo Ancelotti is an exceptional manager, respected all over the world. It's an honour for me to train with them.

Is it true that Fabio Capello helped you get this move?
I asked for Fabio's opinion on the opportunity. And I agree with Capello when he says that my call-up to the England national team will depend on whether or not I play for Milan. I'll try to work hard and I hope it will earn me the chance to wear the England shirt again.

Will you be fit enough for Serie A?
Certainly I can't expect to play from the first minute. I will train with my teammates and get back into shape. But I'm happy that the tests show I'm in better shape than I expected.

Why have you gone for the No32 shirt?
It was just the first number the club offered me - and I accepted.

Three English clubs will clash with Italian teams in the Champions League. Are you excited by the Anglo-Italian showdowns?
Of course! When I discovered that Man United would be coming to play in Milan against Inter in the Champions League, I was very happy. They arrive on 24 February, when I will still be here, so I will be able to see my former team. But, of course, I would like to play in the Champions League again myself.

You gave all that up when you moved to LA. Are you still happy with that choice?
It was a challenge I liked a lot. In America, the level of football is different compared to European football and I wanted to make a difference in quality. I don't pretend I'm raising the level of US football on my own, but what I've been able to contribute has been a pleasure.

For three months, you'll be followed everywhere by the Italian paparazzi. Are you ready for that?
I don't think I will have any problems, as I haven't had them in the past. My past life choices have already put me under a lot of media pressure. When I was in Manchester, I was subjected to a lot, even though I was young and felt it less. It was also that way in Madrid. I know Milan have a lot of fans with a lot of expectations. I just want to be a part of this team without disappointing them, helping Milan win games.

PUB FACT: David Beckham is eligible to make his AC Milan debut against Roma on 11 January and is available for nine Serie A fixtures.