When discussing the greatest goals of the Premier League era, David Beckham’s stunning strike from the halfway line against Wimbledon in August 1996 stands out as one of the very best. This unforgettable moment is undoubtedly among the most famous strikes in English top flight history – if not the most famous.
On the opening day of the 1996-97 season, Beckham showcased his remarkable vision and skill. He received the ball deep in his own half, quickly assessed the situation, and noticed Neil Sullivan off his line. Seizing the opportunity, the future England captain produced a moment of technical brilliance as he flighted the ball over the goalkeeper, who could only stand and admire.
Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler encapsulated the moment perfectly, declaring, “Take a bow, David Beckham.” His commentary has become part of Premier League folklore, adding to the magic of that day. Beckham’s goal not only highlighted his immense talent, but also shot him into a new level of fame. This was something that Sir Alex Ferguson was desperate to protect him from, as the winger himself revealed.
What Ferguson Said to Beckham After His Goal vs Wimbledon
The famous Scot had a short but important message for the rising star
Per The Athletic, the former Manchester United star revealed exactly what was said by his manager and other members of the United squad after his incredible strike. Beckham recalled: “One of my heroes was Eric Cantona. He didn’t say much, Eric. But he came up to me after the game. ‘David… what a goal.’ That was almost as good as actually scoring it. He added:
“I went up to the boss. I thought he was going to say, ‘Great goal’ and put his arms around me. He said, ‘Straight on the bus — and don’t talk to anyone.’
“But that was his way of protecting me. He didn’t want me speaking to any media because he knew what that goal was going to do.”
While Ferguson ultimately could do nothing to stop the celebrity that his academy graduate would become, he did his utmost to delay the inevitable following Beckham’s mind-blowing strike by ensuring that the wide midfielder did not face the media after the full-time whistle.
While he didn’t give the player much credit to his face, Ferguson made sure to praise the goal publicly when he was asked by Martin Tyler about it days later. “Excellent. Absolutely superb,” the Scotsman commented. “First day of the season and you have to say it’ll be Goal of the Season. It will have to be something wonderful to beat that because I’ve never seen it done before. What a marvellous strike of the ball, dear me.”
Tyler also asked Ferguson about the potential a then 21-year-old Beckham had, to which the Premier League’s greatest ever manager gave a candid response:
“He’s started the season very, very well. Of course he’s got stronger. I’ve always said that about the boy. He’s going to take time and I’m not going to rush him. He will be rested many games this season.
“I want him to be playing for Manchester United until he’s 27/28. We’ll nurse him along but obviously he’s had a great start to the season for us.”
Beckham’s Relationship With Ferguson Through the Years
The player viewed his manager as a father figure
Beckham always regarded his first manager as a father figure during his early development as a footballer. Ferguson’s protective nature extended beyond just the aftermath of the famous Wimbledon goal. He also reassured his number seven that he would look after him following the public backlash to the winger’s red card at the 1998 World Cup.
However, as the rising star’s fame outside of football continued to grow, tensions began to mount. While several incidents occurred behind closed doors, the most public spat came when Ferguson allegedly kicked a boot at Beckham while criticising him for a mistake during an FA Cup defeat to Arsenal.
The winger made sure the cut was on full display as the media caught wind of the dressing room incident. It became clear that both parties agreed it was best for the player to leave the club, resulting in his move to Real Madrid that very summer. In the years since, the two have reconciled, with Beckham admitting to the Daily Mail that some of the decisions he made in the past were wrong.
All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt – accurate as of 06/11/2024.