Europa League triumph more important than sport, says Manchester United great Beckham

Manchester United great David Beckham welcomed his old club’s Europa League triumph as a way of bringing “a little happiness at a difficult time”.

The build-up to Wednesday’s match was overshadowed by the tragedy of Monday’s terror attack on the Manchester Arena that left 22 victims dead and dozens more injured.

A minute’s silence preceded kick-off at Friends Arena, before United went on to defeat Ajax 2-0 thanks to goals from Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

Fierce rivals Manchester City tweeted #ACityUnited at the final whistle in a show of solidarity following a desperately tough few days for the city, and Beckham likewise believes that United’s win went beyond footballing success.

Writing via his official Instagram page, the ex-England captain said: “Tonight was more important than sport… 

“Yes, a big night for Manchester United but an even bigger night for the city and for our country…

“At a time when we are grieving for the families that have lost loved ones we have a sport that has bought a little happiness at a difficult time… We pray for peace.”

United’s triumph – their first in this tournament – means they will qualify for next season’s Champions League.

It is the second time that manager Jose Mourinho has lifted the trophy, following his success with Porto in 2003.

 

Tonight was more important than sport… Yes a big night for Manchester United but an even bigger night for the city and for our country …. At a time when we are grieving for the families that have lost loved ones we have a sport that has bought a little happiness at a difficult time… We pray for peace 

A post shared by David Beckham (@davidbeckham) on May 24, 2017 at 2:00pm PDT