Former England captain David Beckham announces his retirement from football aged 38 after a glittering career at the top level. David Beckham has announced his retirement from football aged 38 after a glittering career. The midfielder, who celebrated winning the Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain last weekend, had been offered a new deal by the French club but Beckham said that the “time is right” to hang up his boots. “I’m thankful to PSG for giving me the opportunity to continue but I feel now is the right time to finish my career, playing at the highest level,” said Beckham, who signed a five-month deal with PSG after leaving LA Galaxy. Beckham joined Manchester United as a 14-year-old and made 398 appearances for the Red Devils, winning six Premier League titles, the Champions League and two FA Cups. He continued: “If you had told me as a young boy I would have played for and won trophies with my boyhood club Manchester United, proudly captained and played for my country over one hundred times and lined up for some of the biggest clubs in the world, I would have told you it was a fantasy. I’m fortunate to have realised those dreams.” Former England captain Beckham made his international debut against Moldova in 1996, making his 115th and final England appearance in a 3-0 win over Belarus back in 2009. “To this day, one of my proudest achievements is captaining my country,” Beckham continued. “I knew every time I wore the Three Lions shirt, I was not only following in a long line of great players, I was also representing every fan that cared passionately about their country. “I’m honoured to represent England both on and off the pitch. I want to thank all my team-mates, the great managers that I had the pleasure of learning from. I also want to thank the fans who have all supported me and given me the strength to succeed.” Beckham also paid tribute to his family for supporting him during his career. “I wouldn’t have achieved what I have done today without my family,” he said. “I’m grateful for my parents’ sacrifice, which made me realise my dreams. I owe everything to Victoria and the kids, who have given me the inspiration and support to play at the highest level for such a long period. I also want to thank Simon Fuller and his team for their continued support.”