Speaking from Japan, the first thing that David wanted to do was apologise for the media speculation that has surrounded his move at a time when Madrid are preparing for their crunch game against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

``I want to apologise to the players because all this has not been caused by me,'' he said.

``I did not want to detract from them fighting for the league. I wish them good luck.

``Of course I would have been happier if the transfer had been done differently,'' he continued.

``I think things went on that I wouldn't have been happy about.

``But I don't want to talk about that side of it. I'm a Real Madrid player now and I'm looking forward to it."

``I have joined a club that is a massive club. If I was going to leave Manchester United at any time in my career then to join Real is a dream,'' he said.

``When the club (United) came to a decision on the money side of it then it was my decision after that. For me it is a good decision. I am a Real Madrid player now and I am looking forward to it. It is an exciting thing for the whole family.

``I know a few phrases of Spanish. I haven't started lessons yet but I know how to ask for the bill in a restaurant!''

Beckham also revealed he had discussed his move to the Spanish giants with England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson, who had reassured him about his international future.

``I wouldn't have done it if it affected my England career,'' he said.

``I have spoken to Mr Eriksson about it and he just said to me `Whatever you do, it doesn't matter what club you are playing for, it doesn't affect you being England captain'.''

Beckham also revealed that the speculation about the number seven shirt has been inaccurate.

``I have heard all this that I wanted the number seven shirt. I would never think of taking that off Raul because I think he is the king of Real Madrid,'' he added.

``I have not discussed that (shirt numbers) with Real. I have not even said I want number seven. Whatever number they give me I am happy.''

Beckham also pledged to send a message of thanks to the Old Trafford faithful once he had settled in at the Bernabeu.

``Once that has been done I am going to do a message for all the Manchester United fans because they have been a massive part of my career,'' he added.

``I owe them a lot. They have done a lot for my career and my life.

``I will miss the fans and the players I have grown up with because I have regarded the players at Man United as my family.

``There are a lot of special people there. Everyone has been kind and looked after me. I am sad to be leaving them but I am joining Real Madrid and that is exciting as it gets.''