The “Galácticos” era at Real Madrid remains one of the most iconic chapters in football history, defined by superstar signings, global influence, and an unprecedented concentration of talent. But according to one of the main protagonists of that period, Roberto Carlos, the best player of that legendary squad wasn’t Zidane, Ronaldo or Figo — it was David Beckham.
In a recent conversation with Obi Mikel, the Brazilian left-back surprised many when he stated: “Beckham was the best of them all.”
A bold claim, especially coming from someone who shared the dressing room with some of the greatest footballers of all time.
According to Roberto Carlos, Beckham stood out not only for his global fame but for his professionalism, consistency, and extraordinary work ethic. The Englishman, he said, trained harder than anyone else and maintained a level of discipline “that even the most gifted players couldn’t always match.”
Although Roberto Carlos acknowledged that “Zidane was at the top, he was the most talented,” he insisted that Beckham possessed something unique: absolute commitment, a winning mentality, and an unwavering sense of responsibility toward the team.
“Beckham didn’t just play for the club,” he explained. “He played for his teammates, for Madrid, for victory.”
The Brazilian legend also reflected on his close friendship with Ronaldo Nazário, describing the striker as an unparalleled talent:
“Even when he was a little overweight, he was still the best.”
He added that without injuries, Ronaldo would have dominated world football for an entire era.
Roberto Carlos recalled several defining moments of the Galácticos period — from the explosive return of Luis Figo to Camp Nou (“like a war”) to the damaging departure of Claude Makélélé and the fiery personality of Thomas Gravesen, who he claimed the team “actually needed.”
Today, as a Real Madrid ambassador, Roberto Carlos says he works harder than he did as a player. And although he misses the adrenaline of competing at the highest level, he remains proud to represent the club that shaped his life.
The Galácticos era may never be repeated, but Roberto Carlos’ insight offers a rare look behind the curtain — and reshapes the narrative around a team filled with stars. According to him, the quiet professionalism of David Beckham shone brighter than the brilliance of the giants around him.
