Antoine Griezmann has revealed Manchester United legend David Beckham is the inspiration for his choice of the No.7 jersey throughout his career.
As well as revealing his love for United in general, Griezmann, while writing in his new book 'Getting To The Top Of World Football', waxed lyrical about his idol Beckham.
He said: "Throughout the history of Manchester United, some wonderful players have worn the number seven: George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham.
"Five Red Devil icons. But for me it’s the blond-haired playmaker who represents the club best of all.
"His magical right foot was made for United, with whom he won one Champions League, two FA Cups and six league titles."
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Griezmann also name-checks Arsenal and Germany playmaker Mesut Ozil, but adds that he aspires to be like Beckham on and off the football field.
The France forward turned down the chance to follow in Beckham's footsteps when rejected a United transfer in 2017 and is expected to join Barcelona this summer after revealing he was leaving Atletico Madrid.
On Beckham, he added: "He's my absolute role model. He is the only one I would have loved to play with, even if, these days, watching Mesut Özil is also a delight.
"I have always found Beckham to be perfect, both on the pitch and off it.
There was a charisma and class about everything he did. He was elegant on the field and in life, and he always dressed well.
"When it comes to maintaining his image, he’s the best. I aspire to be like him, to be comfortable and effective in both domains, knowing how to win trophies and to generate attention.
"Beckham is a marketing phenomenon who has become a brand, which I am not yet. Wherever he goes in the world people go crazy.
"It would be a blast to meet him, even though I don’t speak good English. But I imagine he can get by in Spanish, after having spent four seasons at Real.
"I wear the number seven on my back for Atlético Madrid, just as I do for France. It’s in homage to David Beckham.
"And the reason I have always worn long sleeves is also because I want to be like him. I used to find this style chic."
Antoine Griezmann Getting To The Top Of World Football, published by Reach Sport, is on sale now at a special price of £9.99: READ MORE HERE
