David Beckham Talks Maradona, Manchester United and More in Squawka Exclusive

English football legend David Beckham sat down with Squawka's Sanjit Atwal, giving fans a unique insight into the mind of perhaps the biggest global icon the sport has known in the past two decades. 

The midfielder with the silky touch spoke about his new business ventures, some of his favourite players and the current crop of English stars, among a host of other topics.

When asked about his favourite league to play in and his favourite players, he remained as diplomatic as possible, although he admitted it would have been a dream to play with Argentina's Diego Maradona:

"

Every league was different. But La Liga and Premiership were probably the toughest I played in. I loved my time in Madrid and that probably challenged me most as a player because the technical level was very high and I was playing alongside the very best.

I’m lucky to have played with many great players in my career – Zidane, Cantona, Ronaldo, Carlos, Giggs amongst others…It would have been a dream though to play alongside Maradona…

"

Beckham became the face of the sport in the United States when he joined the LA Galaxy near the end of his phenomenal career, and the country left a big impact on the former England international.

He exercised his right to start a Major League Soccer franchise of his own in Miami, Florida, and he spoke of the challenges involved with such a venture:

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I’m as excited now about the team as I have ever been. The people are behind the club and there is real excitement about bringing a team there.

Like anything of note, there will always be small challenges to overcome, however we are in a great place and our vision for the city is a strong one.

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Of course, no interview would be complete without a discussion about the current state of the game in England. An early exit from the 2014 World Cup has enthusiasm surrounding the current crop of players at an all-time low, although the talent is clearly there.

Beckham singled out two players in particular, namely Raheem Sterling and Jack Wilshere. While Sterling's ascension to the top of the football world has been a swift one, Wilshere has faced a lot of criticism in recent years for his perceived lack of progression.

But Beckham asked fans to remain patient and trust the youngester's coaches:

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He [Sterling] is a genuine talent. He had a fantastic season last year and now he needs to achieve that consistency year in and year out like all top players.

We need to be patient and allow him time to grow as a player. I believe he will be a top player for Liverpool and our country for many years to come.

[Jack] can play anywhere in midfield. Look at his performance against City- he was one of the best players and he was in a creative role. He just needs a good run without injuries and I’m sure he will shine for club and country. Roy and Arsene will know how to play him…

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Beckham knows a thing or two about disappointing on the biggest stage of international football, with one of the most memorable moments of his career being the penalty miss against hosts Portugal during Euro 2004.

He overcame the criticism to continue building his magnificent career, however, and his demeanor at the time is something youngsters like Wilshere should take note of.

Finally, he was naturally asked what he thought about his former club's summer acquisitions, and he was very positive, saying: “I have no doubt that players such as Di Maria and Falcao will deliver for Manchester United. The very best players always perform at the highest level whatever club they play for.”

The Red Devils' start to the 2014-15 season has been dreadful, but following their impressive 4-0 win over Queens Park Rangers on Sunday, they suddenly find themselves just two points behind city rivals and top title contenders Manchester City.

John Shearer/Associated Press

A culture of negativity had taken over Old Trafford in recent weeks, but the immediate success of the new signings seems to have lifted the fans' spirits for now. Beckham urged people to trust new manager Louis van Gaal, saying: "We have an experienced manager who has won league titles in many countries so you have to trust him to deliver success."

Van Gaal certainly has his work cut out for him, but the endorsement of one of the club's most legendary players can only be helpful to his situation.

Beckham's career on the pitch may be over, but given the success of his business ventures and the many endorsements he still has, there's little doubt the legendary midfield maestro will remain one of the sport's greatest ambassadors for the foreseeable future.