David Beckham has no problem about mixing friends and family with his football business

Whatever David Beckham does, the world takes notice. He’s just that sort of a man. The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Paris and LA Galaxy star is breaking new ground with his business endeavour in the United States as he tries to put Miami on the footballing map.

Phil Neville has signed his son Harvey for Inter Miami with the 18-year-old leaving Manchester United's academy to join the David Beckham-owned club.

The youngster signed his first professional contract with his dad's former club last summer after joining the academy in 2018 and was previously on the books of Manchester City and Valencia. He was a regular for the Red Devils' Under 23 side this season but has decided to make the switch to America in search of regular playing time.

From Manchester to Miami: Harvey Neville (©AFP)

He was pictured training in South Florida alongside former Real Madrid and Chelsea forward Gonzalo Higuain. And youngster confirmed his United exit by posting a photo of him in the club's gear on Instagram and updating his social media profiles – and receiving likes from David Beckham and his new teammates.

Beckham himself spent the first 10 months of the pandemic in England. He returned to the complex for the first time at the end of December 2020 and hasn't left the area. Of all the changes at Inter Miami, his presence there may be the most profound. The club has been sculpted in Beckham's image, from the emphasis on a strong academy and intense training sessions to the unique great white herons logo that he helped design.

Beckham and Miami – it’s a match made in heaven

The legendary England captain appointed his former teammate Neville manager in January after the 44-year-old left his job as England Women boss as he continues to immerse himself in the ambitious project. Phil Neville spoke about Beckham’s enthusiasm around the young MLS club.

"Where David is concerned, he is an owner who has a sheer presence around the place. We saw him around the training ground this morning, he didn't say that much but he's shaking everyone's hand, making sure he says hello to the guy on reception, the lady who works in the kitchen, the chef, and every single player. That has become part of the norm when he comes into training four, five, six days a week. It's as simple as that and the backing and support he has given me - purely by his presence - has been so good. The players recognise that and the staff have really felt that as well."

Friends, family, old teammates, everyone is welcome – as long as they continue to pull in the same direction.