[Domains4u]

Real Madrid star David Beckham is thrilled by the prospect of facing Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League.


Beckham has not played for Real in England since moving to the Spanish capital from Manchester United in the summer of 2003, and although he will have to wait until March 8 for the second leg at Highbury, the England captain is already looking forward to the clash.


"I've been at Real Madrid for two-and-a-half years and I've never played in England with Real Madrid. But I've always wanted to," he told Real Madrid TV.


"I'm very excited about Arsenal, they'll be very difficult. I've got enormous respect for (Arsenal manager) Arsene Wenger. He's not only a great person but also an excellent manager and trainer."


Beckham is aware the north London side will present a serious challenge to Real's ambitions of repeating their 2001-02 success in the competition, and he is expecting the crowd atmosphere to be electric at both the home and away leg.


"They've got good players and it will be difficult but I'm looking forward to playing in England," Beckham added.


"Arsenal have got really passionate fans and they're right on top of the team and the pitch. It'll be a good atmosphere but a hard game.


"Every team that plays in the Santiago Bernabeu loves it. It's intimidating for opposing teams, they'll enjoy it but not too much."