David Beckham is hoping Milan play Manchester United in the Champions League draw on Friday, enabling the midfielder to face his old side for the first time since leaving for Real Madrid in 2003.
The Los Angeles Galaxy veteran, who will move to the San Siro on loan for the remainder of the 2009-10 season when the transfer window reopens next month, told Gazzetta dello Sport that he would relish a return to Old Trafford.
"I would really like to face my former team in the next round,'' said Beckham. "Since I left (United) in 2003, I have not returned to play at Old Trafford. Seven years have gone by and I would like for that to happen. Me against Manchester, it would be beautiful, wouldn't it?''
But Beckham acknowledged that such a tie would be a difficult encounter for Milan.
"It would be very difficult,'' Beckham added. "But it will be very exciting. I like big challenges and I would love to play that type of game. I would love to win the Champions League because it is a special competition, where the strongest teams compete.
"I am delighted to return to Italy. I can't wait to go back to Milan. I am counting the days and there is only two weeks to go. Above everything, I want to be a part of this fantastic group. It's not important which position I play in midfield, the important thing is how I play.''
