Beckham launches Brazilian training academy

NATAL, Brazil (Ticker) - David Beckham on Tuesday unveiled plans for his third training academy, this one to be built in Natal, Brazil.

The Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder was on hand to launch the project, which will see the new academy built in a complex with eight soccer pitches and a 10,000-seat stadium.

The new project will be the third branch of the “David Beckham Academy” which already has centers in London and Los Angeles.

Beckham admitted there might not be much he could teach Brazilians about the game of soccer, but hoped the center would provide a place for youngsters to study while playing the game.

“I don’t pretend I can teach Brazilians to play football as they are the best in the world,” Beckham said.

“I’m very proud of my academies in London and Los Angeles and I’m happy that Brazilian children will be able to use first-class facilities.”

Beckham is due to return to London later on Tuesday and resume training with Premier League club Arsenal.

Beckham, who has 99 caps for his country, is anxiously awaiting Saturday’s announcement of Fabio Capello’s England squad for the friendly against Switzerland on February 6.