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Who will Gareth Bale be playing for in 2018-19?

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Gareth Bale to Tottenham: Wales star's return to Spurs sees both changed from before but able to boost each other

After being frozen out at Real Madrid, Gareth Bale is returning to the warm embrace of Tottenham Hotspur.

Due to the current restrictions, the stands won't be packed with Spurs fans in replica Bale shirts for his debut but he will feel the love back in north London - in a way he distinctly did not at Real Madrid.

It's a move which, since his departure in 2013, has scarcely seemed possible. How would Spurs, with their savvy spending under Daniel Levy, ever create the financial and footballing package required to bring Bale back?

Yet, against the odds - and with the assistance of a breakdown in the relationship between Bale and his Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane - the stars have aligned for Levy to pull off this breath-taking deal; the first, genuinely showstopping player signing of his tenure.

Bale was the Premier League's golden boy when he left for the Bernabeu in 2013. He returns seven years later as a four-time Champions League winner and with a huge pile of silverware from his time in Madrid.

But that fairytale journey to arguably the world's biggest club had an unhappy ending. From a distance it seemed barely believable a solution could not be found in the Spanish capital between Bale and Zidane; that a player of Bale's calibre could be allowed to become a mere observer in the stands.

But back in the Premier League, Bale has the opportunity to remind his critics of his quality and that, at 31, he can still be one of the most exciting players on the planet.

Reunions do not always work out but - as with all reunions - there is optimism this one can be a hit.

For that to happen both sides will have to appreciate the changes the other has gone through. Tottenham and Bale are transformed from what they were when they were last together.

Injuries and age mean Bale is no longer the rampaging, lung-busting left-winger he was when he last wore the Spurs badge. That goal against Inter Milan seems unlikely to be repeated this time around.

But instead, Bale has learnt to linger in dangerous areas and then make his quality count. His Spurs team-mates must find a way to get the ball to him more frequently than they have Harry Kane in recent months. From there, Bale's left foot will do plenty of damage.

As for Spurs, they were a side in need of a new direction under Andre Villas-Boas when Bale left. Back then, they were out of the Champions League qualifying places and in need of renewal after scaling new heights. There's a distinct symmetry with the current situation.

Portuguese potential in Villas-Boas has been replaced by Mourinho the master since then, but once again it is a Spurs side trying to find a new path after the highs and sad end to the Mauricio Pochettino era.

But White Hart Lane has been transformed into a gleaming new stadium and Bale is befitting of the grand stage. Mourinho - himself Levy's other glamorous appointment - is in search of winners and leaders, to turn a squad of nearly men into trophy lifters. Bale epitomises what he's after.

Quite how it all comes together on the pitch is a matter Mourinho will have to mull over.

He described his team's pressure as lazy against Everton last weekend but he's not signed a ferocious defender from the front in Bale. He has at least five other players already vying for a place alongside Kane in attack.

Fitting it all together to harness the strengths of Kane and Bale will be Mourinho's challenge. But it's one the manager will relish. These are the quality of players he feels he should be working with. And he knows he has a point to prove, too.

So, this most unexpected of things, a statement signing from Levy, will give Mourinho, Spurs and their fans hope of an exciting season ahead.

That seemed far from certain after the insipid, opening-weekend defeat to Everton. But Bale is back and with this happy marriage optimism is in the air.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...nged-from-before-but-able-to-boost-each-other
 
Real Madrid boss Zidane says he never had problem with Bale

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has said he "never had a problem" with Gareth Bale, with the Wales forward set to rejoin Tottenham on loan.

Bale, 31, who joined Real for a then world record £85m in 2013, arrived at Spurs' training ground on Friday.

A run of injuries, indifferent form and a reported falling-out with Zidane saw the Welshman become a marginal figure at the Spanish club.

Zidane said he did not speak to Bale before he left for London.

Bale's signing has not been announced by Spurs yet and on Saturday Zidane said it was "not a done deal".

"It's not like that," Zidane said on Saturday when it was put to him that Bale was leaving because of him. "It's more complicated. With Bale it's always about one side against the other. But I've never had a problem with Gareth.

"There will always be things that happen. Now he's making a change, all we can do is wish him the best... These things happen in football, but I've always said he was a spectacular player."

Bale won four Champions League titles, two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, three Uefa Super Cups and three Club World Cups with Real and scored more than 100 goals.

He remains the most expensive British player in history, as well as the top-scoring British player in La Liga - with 80 goals and 40 assists in 171 league appearances, averaging a goal or assist every 104 minutes.

Zidane added: "I know what he has done for this club. He always proved his quality and what he has achieved with the club cannot be argued with."

It is also anticipated Real Madrid full-back Sergio Reguilon will complete his transfer to Tottenham in the coming days. The 23-year-old Spain international played last season on loan at Sevilla, winning the Europa League.

"We have two players for each position - no more," Zidane said when asked about Reguilon's transfer. "I have two left-backs and I can't have more because then it's a lot. It makes things more complicated we can just wish Reguilon all the best."

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/54218971
 
So he is back at THFC! What a journey for him but will he be that effective?
 
The injuries may have taken their toll and he may not be the player he was, but what a great signing.
 
Spurs have confirmed Bale will be injured until mid-October with a knee injury he picked up on international duty.

So it begins...

Bale, Son and Kane are on paper a wonderful front 3, but only if they actually manage to string 5 games together at the same time.
 
Bale's motivation could mean quicker recovery from injury - Mourinho

New Tottenham loan signing Gareth Bale could return quicker than expected from injury because his "motivation is high", says manager Jose Mourinho.

Forward Bale, who rejoined Spurs last week from Real Madrid, has a knee problem sustained on Wales duty.

Tottenham said they expect Bale "will be match fit after October's international break".

"He is so happy to be with a club of his heart. He is so happy to play for us," said Mourinho.

"When a player has this motivation, many, many times you can shorten the period of recovering and shorten the period of getting fit and ready to play.

"We want to help him, so when he's available to train with the team, we're more than happy to have him and help him back to a level that made him one of the best players in the world."

Spurs have four games until the international break - against Leyton Orient in the EFL Cup, Shkendija in Europa League qualifying, and Premier League matches against Newcastle United and Manchester United.

Their first outing following the international break is at home to West Ham on 17 October.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/54238612
 
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Gareth Bale could stay longer than season at Tottenham, says forward's agent

Gareth Bale could stay at Tottenham for longer than the season-long loan the club have agreed with Real Madrid, says the Wales international's agent.

The 31-year-old forward has rejoined Spurs having left them in 2013 for a then world record fee of £85m.

"I'm sure that if things really worked out well, we'd have no problem," said Jonathan Barnett.

"This is the club he wants to play at. I don't see any problems if he wants another year."

Bale, who was close to leaving Real Madrid for China in the summer of 2019, has a contract until 2022 with the Spanish giants and at the moment is scheduled to return at the end of the season.

Barnett, speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, added: "Hopefully the subject [of returning to Real] won't come up. He will be so successful at Tottenham he'll want to stay and it will be a simple deal to do the rest."

Bale has won 13 major trophies with Real Madrid, including four Champions Leagues and two La Liga titles.

He is also the top-scoring British player in La Liga - with 80 goals and 40 assists in 171 league appearances.

"What I hope is he'll get his love back for the game and play the way he can, but it's up to him," said Barnett.

"And he's not on trial anywhere. He's achieved more than any other, I think, British footballer abroad, so I think he's fine."

Read more:

Bale 'should have been treated better'

Bale has been hampered by injuries in his time at Real and was booed by sections of the Spanish club's fans during the 2018-19 season.

He also fell out of favour under manager Zinedine Zidane, who said it would be "best for everyone" if Bale left in July 2019.

"In my opinion, he wasn't treated correctly for somebody who's done so much for a great club," said Barnett. "I think that things were wrong.

"It's hard to put one finger on it but I think somebody who has achieved what he has achieved for a club, in seven years, should have been treated better.

"I don't want to blame anybody or go into it. I think what the fans did was disgraceful and the club didn't help. That's all I really want to get into."

'Spurs made the first move'

Tottenham will have to wait for Bale to make his second debut for the club as he has a knee problem sustained on Wales duty.

Spurs said they expect Bale "will be match-fit after October's international break".

Asked how the move to the north London side came about, Barnett added: "Basically it was a conversation between [Tottenham chairman] Daniel Levy and myself where the subject came up, I suggested it and Daniel was interested.

"So that's basically how it was done. No magic, just long chats.

"Daniel Levy's been interested in bringing Gareth back for a long time. There was always a reason why it couldn't happen. Just this was the right moment.

"They made the move first."
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/54243742
 
Luka Modric defends Gareth Bale's Real Madrid spell, says he spoke Spanish with team-mates

Luka Modric has defended Gareth Bale's seven-year spell at Real Madrid and insisted he should be remembered for his "extraordinary" influence at the club.

Bale has returned to Tottenham on a season-long loan from Real, ending - for now - speculation regarding the 31-year-old's future after a turbulent few years in the Spanish capital.

The forward fell out of favour with head coach Zinedine Zidane, and was close to joining Chinese side Jiangsu Suning last summer before enduring his poorest season at Real in terms of minutes played in 2019-20.

Real went on to win La Liga, Bale's second league title on top of four Champions League trophies, and Modric says the "shy" Welshman's contribution has been forgotten in recent years.

"I have spent a lot of time with Gareth, almost all of my professional career: four years at Tottenham and seven years here. What I can say about Gareth is that he's an amazing guy," Modric, who joined Real from Spurs a year earlier than Bale in 2012, told COPE.

"He's a little bit shy, his personality is very similar to mine. What has been said about him lately is not fair, maybe he's judged for the last few years, but what he did in Madrid is extraordinary.

"For me he's always going to be remembered as a player who did a lot for this team, for this club. A lot of things have been said, but Gareth never had any issue with anyone in the dressing room, he's a wonderful guy.

"He spoke Spanish, for example, he did not give any interviews, but in the dressing room he would joke a little bit and he talked with us, and everybody was really happy with him really. But for sure, in the last few years a few things came up and maybe they forgot what he's done for this club. But in a few years' time he will be remembered as an incredible player, an important player for Real Madrid.

"Everybody has his own behaviour, and does things their own way. Gareth was like that, he would not really connect with the rest of us but I'm telling you, it was really good to have him in the changing room and I'm very sorry that everything he's done has been forgotten in the past year."

Bale joined Madrid from Spurs in what was a world-record £86m transfer back in 2013, and he went on to score a stunning winner against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final a year later.

A month later in 2014 Bale scored in the 4-1 Champions League final win over Atletico Madrid, their first European triumph in 12 years.

On top of two league titles, Bale added three more Champions League medals to his collection, the last of which saw him score twice - including a stunning overhead kick - when coming off the bench in Real's 3-1 win over Liverpool.

Could Bale stay at Spurs?

Last month Bale's agent Jonathan Barnett admitted his client's career in Madrid had effectively come to a close.

Asked if Bale could stay at Spurs beyond his one-season loan, Barnett told talkSPORT: "Yeah, there are lots of opportunities; it's up to him.

"The most important thing is for him to enjoy his football and that he's playing well. As long as that's happening, it'll all be fine.

"He's a mature man now and he knows what he wants out of life.

"He's probably the most successful footballer Britain has ever produced, and there's lots of things he still wants to do with his life, so we'll have to wait and see."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...d-spell-says-he-spoke-spanish-with-team-mates
 
Tottenham's Gareth Bale 'probably' playing against West Ham, says Jose Mourinho

Gareth Bale will "probably" make his second debut for Tottenham against West Ham on Sunday, says head coach Jose Mourinho.

Bale sealed a sensational return to Spurs from Real Madrid on loan in September - returning to north London seven years after his world-record transfer to the Spanish giants.

The Wales forward, who was rested over the international break to build up his fitness, is yet to feature for Spurs but is likely to be involved either on Sunday or in the Europa League on Thursday against LASK.

"Of course he wants to play," Mourinho said. "He wanted to play since the day he arrived, but it was not possible.

"I am not going to tell you if he is going to play, what I can tell you is that he is working very well, he is working in the way he was not able to do for a long time.

"The last week, especially Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, the planning of the sessions had a big focus on him and he is in pretty good condition."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...y-playing-against-west-ham-says-jose-mourinho
 
Gareth Bale returns to Wales squad for November games

Gareth Bale has returned to the squad for Wales' three November games to be managed by assistant boss Robert Page.

The team's record scorer was absent for the October internationals as he built his fitness following his return to Tottenham on loan from Real Madrid.

The winger, 31, suffered a knee injury during September's win over Bulgaria.

Wales manager Ryan Giggs denies all allegations and has promised to co-operate with police after being arrested on suspicion of assault.

The Football Association says it has been "mutually agreed" Giggs will not be involved in this month's matches against the United States, the Republic of Ireland and Finland.

Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey is out of the squad, selected by Giggs, after suffering a thigh injury.

Ramsey was injured in Juve's 4-1 Champions League victory at Ferencvaros on Wednesday.

"Aaron Ramsey was subjected to examinations this morning, which revealed a low-grade injury to the rectus femoris muscle of the right thigh. In 10 days it will be re-evaluated again," Juventus said in a statement.

Wales will again play three matches in the international window as they did in October, beginning with a friendly against the USA at Swansea's Liberty Stadium on Thursday, 12 November.

They then host the Republic of Ireland at the Cardiff City Stadium on Sunday, 15 November in the first of two Nations League games, with Finland visiting the Welsh capital on Wednesday, 18 November.

Wales have called two new goalkeepers into their squad with Crystal Palace's Wayne Hennessey and Stoke's Adam Davies both ruled out with injury.

Dunfermline keeper Owain Fon Williams, a member of the Euro 2016 squad, is recalled, as is Newport County's Tom King.

League Two leaders Newport have two players in the Wales squad for the first time in 37 years, with uncapped midfielder Josh Sheehan also included.

If either features, they will be the first Newport players to represent Wales since a friendly against Brazil in June 1983.

Sheehan is one of three uncapped players in an increased 28-man squad, alongside King and Nottingham Forest's on-loan midfielder Brennan Johnson.

Wales recall defenders James Lawrence and Tom Lockyer and midfielder Tom Lawrence from injury, but Hal Robson-Kanu misses out with a broken arm and Sam Vokes continues to be overlooked.

The United States have included Chelsea's Christian Pulisic and Manchester City goalkeeper Zack Steffen in their squad for games against Wales and Panama.

Wales squad: Ward, Fon Williams, King, Gunter, Davies, Roberts, Ampadu, Mepham, Lockyer, Rodon, N Williams, Lawrence, Cabango, Norrington-Davies, J Williams, Wilson, Brooks, James, Smith, Morrell, Levitt, Johnson, Sheehan, Bale, Lawrence, Moore, Ratondo, Roberts.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/54782141
 
Gareth Bale: Tottenham forward 'concerned' after embrace with club team-mate Matt Doherty

Wales captain Gareth Bale has admitted he was left "concerned" after Republic of Ireland defender - and his Tottenham team-mate - Matt Doherty tested positive for coronavirus following Sunday's match between the teams.

Republic of Ireland midfielder James McClean also tested positive along with Doherty, who Bale was pictured hugging at the end of the match, but every player in Wales' squad has since returned a negative coronavirus test.

Following those clear results, Wales' Nations League promotion decider against Finland is set to go ahead in Cardiff on Wednesday.

"It's a slight concern for everybody when you've been playing someone and you're in close contact with them on the field," Bale said.

"Maybe you're not long enough with them to catch it, but you're a bit wary.

"It's good news that everyone's come back and tested negative and now we can just concentrate on the game on Wednesday."

Bale said that he and Tottenham - and Wales - team-mate Ben Davies have spoken to Doherty since his positive test.

"Me and Ben have spoke to him briefly and he's doing fine, he's just got mild symptoms," Bale said.

"Hopefully he recovers fine, doesn't have any problems and will be back playing as soon as possible.

"The FAW are doing a fantastic job keeping to all the protocols. They are making sure we are doing everything right in the hotel and no one is doing anything wrong in training.

"They've done fantastic with that and we're obviously glad that none of us have tested positive."

Wales caretaker boss Robert Page insisted he is confident in the testing procedures his side have in place.

"Some associations will use different testing companies," Page said.

"All I can speak for is ourselves, I can't speak for Ireland. But we feel what we have done is good planning.

"Of course there's going to be contact on the pitch. We've watched the game back and it's hard to determine how long you've got to be in close contact for as well.

"If there's absolutely any risk we will not take the chance. But our medical protocols have been second to none and we've had consistent negative tests so that goes to show we're doing something right."

Tottenham will be without Doherty for Saturday's match against Manchester City, which is live on Sky Sports.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...fter-embrace-with-club-team-mate-matt-doherty
 
Tottenham head coach Jose Mourinho says Gareth Bale's social media post on Wednesday was a contradiction of reality, after the Wales forward was left out for the defeat to Everton in midweek despite saying he had a "good session" in training.

Mourinho admitted after the 5-4 defeat to Everton on Wednesday that he was surprised by Bale's injury issue, saying he did not think it was an "obvious, clear injury".

The Spurs boss suggested Bale himself may not have been responsible for the post which was "totally wrong" and said he will be in contention to feature against Manchester City on Saturday, live on Sky Sports Premier League, if he comes through Friday's training session unscathed.

"I have to admit that his post created a need of being addressed. There was a contradiction between the post and the reality," said Mourinho.

"Since the beginning of the season, in relation to everything, I've tried to be very private and keep everything indoors but I felt that I needed to address the situation.

"Probably the post was not even his responsibility, but it was showing that training session was 'great' and 'I'm ready' which was totally wrong. So when questioned I had to give the reality of things.

"I repeat for the last time. He was not feeling good. He asked for a scan. He had a scan. The scan did not show an injury but his feelings were still there but as coaches, medical people we can never go against the player feelings.

"So he was not ready for the game. It's as simple as that. If he's ready for tomorrow he's selected for tomorrow."

Bale has played 230 minutes in the Premier League for Spurs since joining on loan from Real Madrid in the summer, starting twice.

'Bale's absence will become a theme if niggly injuries continue'

Sky Sports' Paul Gilmour on the Pitch to Post Preview Podcast:

"Jose Mourinho talked about his surprise Bale was not available for that game against Everton. The last time I checked in with somebody close to Bale he was happy at the club, continuing on. I think we know Jose Mourinho demands a lot out of players and no matter who you are, you could have the best CV in the world - and you look at Gareth Bale's CV and it's not too bad with all of the Champions League titles and the goals he's scored - but you still have to do what Jose Mourinho wants and you still have to adapt to everything.

"So clearly he does not feel Bale - a bit like Dele Alli, in a way - that there's a space for him in the team at the moment.

"It has been strange to see him come back on this massive deal. Sometimes the view of the manager and the view of the club can differ. There is sometimes a big pressure from the club side, from the business side to get the best out of someone they invest a lot of money in. It's just not happening for him at the moment.

"There was a hope over the Christmas period that in the second half of the season he would really step up but, with the niggly injuries and not being able to match the intensity Jose Mourinho wants, that's developing into the next theme.

"No doubt we will hear a lot from Jose Mourinho - he will certainly be asked a lot of questions about Gareth Bale - over the coming weeks if he continues not to play."

SKY
 
He is done with football. He is only playing for money now, he lost the passion and the desire long ago.

He is itching for a move to MLS or China, where he will earn millions and face no pressure from the club and will play golf to his heart’s content.
 
Real Madrid and Levante played out a six-goal thriller that saw Gareth Bale's first La Liga goal since 2019 and an outfield player end up in goal.

Bale scored from Karim Benzema's pass but Roger Marti levelled 28 seconds after the restart.

Jose Campana volleyed Levante ahead but Vinicius Jr levelled.

Rober Pier put Levante back into the lead but Vinicius made it 3-3 with a clever finish before Levante goalkeeper Aitor Fernandez was sent off.

He ran 20 yards outside his box and handled to stop Rodrygo going past him, with defender Ruben Vezo having to goal for the final few minutes.

Fortunately for Levante, Real never forced him into a save.

When Bale scored the opener for Real with a clever first-time finish, it looked as if that would be the story of the game.

Back in the picture under Carlo Ancelotti, it was the Wales legend's first La Liga goal since September 2019 and his first for Real in any competition since January 2020.

At half-time with Real 1-0 up and looking in control, it seemed as if the only question would be how much they won by.

Less than 30 seconds after the restart though, the Valencia hosts levelled with their first shot on target when Marti netted from Gonzalo Melero's through ball.

They then led through Campana's sensational volley into the top corner from Jorge de Frutos' cross.

At this stage Real brought off Bale in part of a triple sub that saw Vinicius come on - and the Brazilian ended up rescuing Real.

First of all he ran onto Casemiro's through ball before keeping his composure and slotting home.

Levante again led through Pier's close-range finish after David Alaba deflected a free-kick into his path.

But Vinicius' clipped finish off the inside of the post rescued a point for Real.

Fernandez's red card came at a bad time for Levante, one minute after they made their final substitution, but fortunately for them Real could not take advantage of Vezo's cameo with the gloves in six minutes of injury time.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/58300956
 
Captain Gareth Bale remains committed to Wales as he aims to lead them to their first World Cup since 1958, says manager Robert Page.

There were questions over Bale's future with speculation before Euro 2020 he may retire after the tournament.

The 32-year-old walked away when he was asked about his Wales future following the round of 16 defeat by Denmark.

But Bale has been named in Wales' squad for their World Cup qualifiers in September and intends to keep playing.

"As a player, manager, you want to be part of a World Cup. The boys will go down in history if they qualify," said Page.

"Of course he [Bale] is going to want to be a part of that.

"He's no different, but to do that you just can't turn up and play for Wales. You've got to give it your best and play for your club.

"There's no argument there, he's ticking all the boxes."

Real Madrid forward Bale is joined in the Wales squad by Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey.

The star duo helped Wales reach the last 16 of this summer's delayed Euro 2020 but have not played a qualifier together since 2019.

There are no uncapped players as Page sticks with the bulk of his Euros squad. The only players missing from that group are Swansea City defenders Connor Roberts and Ben Cabango, ruled out with a groin injury and Covid-19 respectively.

In their first match since losing to Denmark in the second round of Euro 2020, Wales face Finland in a friendly in Helsinki on Wednesday, 1 September.

They will then resume their World Cup qualifying campaign against Belarus in Kazan, Russia, the following Sunday before hosting Estonia at Cardiff City Stadium on Wednesday, 8 September.

Wales lost their opening game of the campaign away against Group E top seeds Belgium, but responded with a 1-0 home win over the Czech Republic.

Realistically, Page's side will need to beat both Belarus and Estonia to keep alive their hopes of qualifying automatically for a first World Cup since 1958 by winning their group.

Those ambitions will be boosted by the way Bale and Ramsey have started their seasons at Real Madrid and Juventus respectively.

Having spent the last campaign on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, Bale has started both of Real's La Liga fixtures to date and scored in Sunday's 3-3 draw at Levante.

"Gareth's not changed who he is," said Page. "Players will tell you different managers have different thoughts in how they want to play and whether they take to you as a person or as a player.

"He's got a manager now [Carlo Ancelotti] who's been impressed in what he's done in pre-season and watched him through the Euros. That's all he can influence.

"Thankfully he's had a positive impact on the manager and started the season in good form and scoring goals, which is great for us."

Wales' Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey celebrate
Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey have a combined 163 caps and 50 goals for Wales
Ramsey started Juventus' opening Serie A match of the season, Sunday's 2-2 draw at Udinese, and will hope that is a sign of things to come after an injury-interrupted first two seasons in Italy.

"They [Bale and Ramsey] are in good form coming into this camp, which is really pleasing for me and the Welsh supporters," Page added.

"We want our players playing competitive football week in and week out, no different for those two."

The absence of uncapped players in Wales' squad means there is no first call-up for Huddersfield Town winger Sorba Thomas.

Newham-born Thomas has impressed in the Championship after making the step up from non-league Boreham Wood in January.

The 22-year-old left-sided player, who qualifies for Wales via his mother from Newport, has started all four of Huddersfield's league games this season, providing two assists.

"If anyone is eligible for Wales and is playing good level football and is showing potential, then of course we're going to be interested," said Page.

"He's on the radar and I've been in contact."

Wales squad
Goalkeepers: Hennessey, Ward, A Davies.

Defenders: B Davies, Gunter, Rodon, Ampadu, N Williams, Lockyer, Lawrence, Norrington-Davies.

Midfielders: Ramsey, Allen, J Williams, Wilson, Brooks, Morrell, Smith, Levitt, Thomas, Colwill.

Forwards: Bale, James, Moore, T Roberts, Johnson.
 
Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale could win his 100th Wales cap after being named in the squad for World Cup qualifiers against Belarus and Belgium.

Bale, who has 99 caps, missed Wales' October qualifiers because of hamstring tear.

Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey is also included despite "muscle fatigue" ruling him out of Juve's defeat by Verona at the weekend.

"I have a plan in my head already for Gareth," Wales boss Robert Page said.

Bale has not played since Wales' 0-0 draw with Estonia on 8 September, having suffered what Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti described as an "important" injury.

The return of Bale provides a huge boost to Wales as they look to secure second spot ahead of the Czech Republic.

The all-time top scorer for the Wales men's team, Bale would follow team-mate Chris Gunter in reaching the milestone of 100 caps.

In the women's team, Wales' most-capped player Jess Fishlock, coach Loren Dykes and captain Sophie Ingle are also members of the 100-cap club.

"Gareth is in a good place. He's raring to go and doing everything possible to get himself 100% fit. He's where we want him to be," Page told BBC Sport Wales.

"He's not in full training, but he's back on the grass. He will absolutely be considered for starting games.

"How many minutes he can play we will see, but we will have to assess it as we go.

"We are confident at the moment not only will he turn up but be fit to play as well."

Cardiff City striker Kieffer Moore, who scored Wales' winner in Estonia, misses the Belarus game because of suspension.

Moore has been a key figure for the national side in this qualifying campaign.

"We've done it in the past [coped without Moore], but Kieffer is a big loss for us - when he's not in the team, it's a big miss," Page said.

"We will have to adapt and play in a different way and make sure we get the positive result that we want."

Page is also confident Juventus midfielder Ramsey will be fit for selection.

Wales have rarely had the luxury of selecting Bale and Ramsey together, but Page is hopeful that will happen for these pivotal fixtures.

"Aaron Ramsey is learning to manage his body. He identified muscle fatigue and took himself out, which is sensible, maybe five years ago he would have played and then broken down," Page said.

"He did it for the last camp and I don't see any change for this one, he played both games last month and I thought he was magnificent."

Wales' interim boss makes three changes to the squad he named for the 2-2 draw with the Czech Republic and 1-0 win over Estonia in October.

Cardiff City midfielder Will Vaulks and Swansea City defender Ben Cabango retain their places after coming into the squad last month as injury replacements.

Luton's Tom Lockyer and on-loan Hull midfielder Matthew Smith drop out from last month's squad, while Bournemouth midfielder David Brooks is being treated for stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma.

Brooks, who has won 21 Wales caps, was on international duty last month and credited the Wales medical team for helping detect the illness.

"The medical team will be in touch with David, I've not spoken to him personally," Page added.

"He knows we are all fully behind him and fully supportive of him. He knows we are here for him.

"I can't speak highly enough of our medical team for what they did and the support they gave Brooksy afterwards as it was a difficult thing to hear.

"The work they did that week was unbelievable."

Wales enter their final qualifiers third in World Cup qualifying Group E, level on points with the Czech Republic who are second with a superior goal difference, but Wales have played one game fewer.

Page's side will play both matches at home, with Belarus visiting Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday, 13 November, before Belgium, who have already won the group, visit the Welsh capital on Tuesday, 16 November.

Wales squad: Wayne Hennessey, Daniel Ward, Adam Davies, Chris Gunter, Ben Davies, Connor Roberts, Chris Mepham, Joe Rodon, Ben Cabango, Neco Williams, James Lawrence, Rhys Norrington-Davies, Aaron Ramsey, Joe Allen, Jonny Williams, Ethan Ampadu, Harry Wilson, Joe Morrell, Will Vaulks, Dylan Levitt, Sorba Thomas, Daniel James, Gareth Bale, Kieffer Moore, Tyler Roberts, Brennan Johnson, Rubin Colwill, Mark Harris.
 
Gareth Bale labelled Spanish newspaper headlines targeting him as "disgusting" after his two goals against Austria put Wales within one game of reaching the World Cup.

Wales moved one step closer to their first World Cup since 1958 as Bale stole the show in a 2-1 win over Austria in the play-off semi-final.

Spanish media outlets had criticised Bale after he linked up with Wales having been absent for Real Madrid in Sunday's El Clasico against Barcelona.

Spanish newspaper Marca ran the image of a happy looking Bale and Joe Rodon in Welsh training gear alongside the headline "it doesn't hurt anymore".

Bale was also called a "parasite" by a journalist for Marca.

Bale's celebration for the first goal was full of emotion as he looked to be sending a message to some of his doubters by mouthing words into the camera.

He explained the celebration after the game, as he was asked if he was sending a specific message and to who. Bale said to Sky Sports: "I don't need to send a message, honestly. It's a waste of my time. It's disgusting and they should also be ashamed of themselves. I'm not fussed. End of."

On the game itself, a game that took Wales to a play-off final against Scotland or Ukraine, Bale said: "It was a massive game. We knew coming into it how big a game it was and we had to perform. We had to dig deep and look at our experience in big games and it's a perfect scenario."

Bale was substituted to a standing ovation in the closing stages but allayed any fears over a possible injury.

"I had some cramp at the end which I guess is normal but I'll run into the ground for this country and we all did that tonight," he said.

"It's fantastic. Half the job done. The good thing now is that we can enjoy tonight because the game is in June. Still another very tough game against either Scotland or Ukraine and we'll be ready for that when it comes."

Aaron Ramsey also stepped up when his country needed him, putting in an all-action showing in midfield despite - like Bale - struggling for minutes over the past year with Juventus before moving to Rangers in January.

Ramsey said of Bale: "It's not been easy for him, but playing for his country means everything to him and you can see that the way he plays, he enjoys himself.

"We are a great group here, we get on very well - we want to play and work hard for each other and he's no different. He can produce moments of magic like that in the game."

Gareth Bale gave Wales the lead with a stunning free-kick.
The result means both Ramsey and Bale still have a chance to make a World Cup for the first time in their careers.

Ramsey added: "It means everything. Playing in front of these fans, what more could you want? We are one game away from the World Cup which is everything for myself, Bale, for the nation and for the group of lads.

"This is what we want. We've come a very long way since the early days and this would just be the icing on the cake now for us to qualify for the World Cup. Still a bit of work to be done, but we will enjoy tonight."

Wales manager Robert Page described Bale's free-kick for the opening goal as the best he had ever seen.

"It hasn't sunk in properly yet," he told Sky Sports. "What a game, what a night, what an occasion.

"The star man turns up and that's the best free-kick I've ever seen in my life.

"Two great goals. A deflected goal against makes it an anxious last half an hour but, to a man, I thought we were outstanding tonight.

"The players thoroughly deserve all the plaudits they are going to get. They are an unbelievable group of men.

Page also hailed the supporters inside the Cardiff City Stadium for their role in the victory.

"Our supporters got us through it, one million per cent," he said. "When they sing the national anthem that late on, that gets you across the line. They didn't fail tonight, they helped us through it."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...fuelled-by-disgusting-spanish-press-headlines
 
Last edited:
Those two goals from Bale were absolutely brilliant, particularly the free kick which from a difficult angle was just sublime. He is still a world class player.
 
When Real Madrid face Liverpool in Saturday's Champions League final, one potential match-winner will be conspicuous by his expected absence from the pitch.

Gareth Bale - the two-goal hero when the teams met in 2018's final - has become a forgotten man, making only seven Real appearances all season and starting just one game in club colours since August.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti has declared Bale, 32, fit for the final after a back problem, but he has only played 22 minutes for the team since February and is extremely unlikely to feature.

With his contract at the Bernabeu expiring next month, his nine-year spell in Spain is limping to the quietest of endings, and it is fair to suggest his departure will come as a great relief to all parties.

For a player who has scored 106 goals and won 15 trophies in Spain to become arguably British football's greatest ever export, it is a terribly sad way to finish - and even more of a shame because it all started so well.

When Bale was signed by Real for 100m euros from Tottenham in 2013, he immediately became a key component of a breathtakingly exciting forward line alongside Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Bale was quickly embraced by Real fans - especially when he concluded his first season by winning the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona with a stupendous solo goal, and then netted in the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid to help seal Real's long-awaited tenth European crown.

But the first signs of trouble soon arrived. Early in 2015 Real suffered a bad run of form, including a 4-0 thrashing at Atletico and a 4-3 Champions League defeat by Schalke.

Some sections of the media made Bale the scapegoat for those poor results, lambasting him with criticism that seemed excessive and fostered a theory that their attacks on Bale were really an indirect way of getting at Real president Florentino Perez - theories they denied.

Bale appeared to be stung by the ferocity of the criticism, but since arriving in Spain he rarely connected with Real fans or the media, only conducting one heavily staged interview in Spanish and by all accounts living a sheltered life.

His perception was soon further damaged by a series of injuries which often cleared up just in time for him to go on international duty with Wales, provoking accusations that Bale's club career had moved below playing for his country on his list of priorities.

Those factors combined to create a negative spiral in the relationships between Bale, the tabloid Spanish media, a section of Real fans and even the club itself. And with Bale generally quietly retreating into his small inner circle rather than trying to rescue his reputation, that situation of distrust was never escaped.

The mutual loathing between Bale and the Spanish media reached its low point in March, when sports newspaper Marca described Bale as a "parasite" after he missed the Clasico home loss to Barcelona, supposedly through injury, but promptly went away on international duty to start and score twice for Wales against Austria.

Although he has usually not responded to such criticism, on this occasion he bit back, tweeting his disgust by describing the attack as "slanderous, derogatory and speculative journalism," and concluding: "We all know who the real parasite is!"

Bale was certainly not primarily responsible for instigating the spiral of negativity. The fact that he has never been accused of dressing-room dissent, despite his well-chronicled troubles, shows that he was not a troublemaker; but neither was he a peacemaker, instead preferring to remain aloof and alone. That means he will be remembered by Real fans with respect for the player he initially was, but also with scorn for the disinterested, peripheral presence he later became.

In the final analysis, the unhappy ending to Bale's time at Real Madrid reflects badly on everybody: the club, which could have supported him much better and at times hung him out to dry; the media, which has often been excessive in its criticism; the fans, many of whom too easily swallowed the negative stories they were served and too quickly forgot his accomplishments.

And, it must be said, Bale himself, who struggled to engage as he was latterly portrayed in Spain - whether fairly or not - as the ultimate example of a modern mercenary footballer, disconnected from his community and only interested in picking up a bloated salary.

There is a common Spanish phrase to describe a glorious departure: 'salir por la puerta grande' - to go out through the main entrance. Brazilian left-back Marcelo, for example, is being accorded such a fond farewell as his contract with Real also draws to a conclusion, receiving a rousing ovation during his team's final game of the season against Real Betis on Friday.

Bale, in contrast, was not even seen inside the stadium for that game and was recently dismissively described by Madrid-based sports newspaper AS as sneaking out of the club "through the cat flap".

That is a fair description and, however you view the rights and wrongs of the breakdown in relationships, it is a sad way for such a wonderful player to leave a club where he achieved so much.

BBC
 
Gareth Bale deserves the respect of Real Madrid fans as he leaves the club, his Wales manager Robert Page says.

Bale won a joint-record fifth Champions League title on Saturday, albeit having barely featured this season.

After facing withering criticism from fans and the Spanish media in the past, the Wales captain was applauded as Real celebrated at the Bernabeu on Sunday.

"They [Real fans] showed class and rightly so for what he's achieved for that football club," said Page.

"You look back to what he's done, scoring winners in Champions League finals and in the manner in which he's done it, he deserves all the plaudits, absolutely.

"What an achievement for him personally. To be a part of that group of people, that team that's achieved that, is phenomenal. Not many players can say they've done that, so credit to him for that."

Bale's initially glittering but recently fractious nine-year stay at Real will end when his contract, worth an estimated £600,000 per week, expires this summer.

After celebrating Saturday's win over Liverpool with his team-mates in Madrid on Sunday, the 32-year-old has joined Wales' squad as they prepare for Wednesday's Nations League match in Poland, four days before Sunday's World Cup play-off final against Scotland or Ukraine.

Wales are aiming to qualify for a World Cup for the first time since 1958 so, with such an important fixture on the horizon, Bale is unlikely to play many, if any, minutes against Poland.

"It's risk and reward. The biggest game we've got is on Sunday and that's no disrespect to Poland whatsoever," said Page.

"We're going to show them complete respect but we'd be mad to jeopardise our top, top players so, without answering it directly, you know where I'm going with it.

"He's in good spirits as he always is. He was adamant he was meeting the players in Portugal [where Wales have been training] to fly to Poland with them, which speaks volumes. He wanted to be with the squad as soon as possible.

"He's as humble as ever, he's met up with the group and he's been first class right away."

Bale has played only 20 minutes for Real since Wales last played in March, when his preparation for the World Cup play-off semi-final against Austria amounted to a mere two appearances for the Spanish and European champions since November.

However, on that occasion, he scored two brilliant goals to inspire Wales to victory and take them to within one win of World Cup qualification.

The likes of midfielders Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen are also expected to be rested against Poland, with Page set to select a young and inexperienced side.

Huddersfield Town winger Sorba Thomas could feature despite playing in Sunday's Champions play-off final defeat by Nottingham Forest, whose forward Brennan Johnson has not travelled to Poland and will rejoin the Wales squad at their training base near Cardiff.

"The highs and lows of football, isn't it? You've got one that's absolutely elated with the result of the game and is now going to be playing Premier League football, and one that's going to be bitterly disappointed that he's not got his dream," said Page.

"Sorba is slightly different to Brennan, he's not played as many minutes and had as much football. Credit to him, he flew out yesterday and got here this morning and he is with the boys for breakfast today, showing that commitment to be with the group right away.

"Brennan's slightly different. I've given him a few days [off] after the final. He's played a lot of football this season so he won't be part of Wednesday's group [against Poland], but he'll be there at the hotel waiting for us on Wednesday night [in Wales] when we fly back, ready for Sunday's game."

BBC
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Receiving an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday honours list is a very proud moment for my family and I. To be given this news as we prepare to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee makes it feel even more special.</p>— Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) <a href="https://twitter.com/GarethBale11/status/1532295028252483584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 
I’m 99% certain that if Ukraine eliminates Wales from the World Cup, Bale will retire immediately.

Mark Viduka fell out of love with football, just like Dele Alli has. And Bale only loves playing for Wales.
 
Cardiff City are stepping up their efforts to pull off the improbable signing of Wales captain Gareth Bale.

Bluebirds chairman Mehmet Dalman has flown into the United Kingdom to lead negotiations.

Bale, 32, is available on a free transfer having left Real Madrid after nine years in Spain, during which he won five Champions League titles.

On Sunday, his deflected free-kick secured Wales' 1-0 win over Ukraine and a place at the World Cup in Qatar.

A return to Tottenham or a move to a Major League Soccer club in the United States have also been mooted as possible options as Bale looks to round off his stellar career.

But Championship club Cardiff are also in the picture.

Bale was born in Cardiff but, having had spells at Southampton, Tottenham and Real Madrid, he has never played club football in Wales.

Cardiff are seen as an option because Bale's primary consideration is to lead Wales in their first World Cup for 64 years.

But Cardiff are looking beyond Qatar in November and December. They hope that offering Bale the chance to lead them back into the Premier League will be a driving factor behind him signing a contract even beyond the 2022-23 season.

Financially, Cardiff are up against it. At Real, Bale earned £600,000 per week, more than the weekly wage bill of Cardiff's first-team squad.

But Bale is believed to be open to taking a significant pay cut, while the move would have massive marketing appeal for the club.

Cardiff are refusing to comment.

Before the Ukraine game, Bale said he was only focusing on the World Cup play-off final but, asked about his club options, he smiled and said he had "loads".

BBC
 
Cardiff City have held talks with Gareth Bale's representatives as they step up their efforts to sign the out-of-contract Wales captain.
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gareth Bale joins Los Angeles FC on a free transfer, here we go! Follows <a href="https://twitter.com/tombogert?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tombogert</a> scoop - it’s confirmed, Bale leaves European football to try new MLS experience. Agreement in place. 🚨🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🇺🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LAFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LAFC</a><br><br>Contract will be valid until June 2023 - as Bale follows Chiellini at LAFC. <a href="https://t.co/C47AJGpCtm">pic.twitter.com/C47AJGpCtm</a></p>— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1540714724991459330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 
<b>Wales captain Gareth Bale has agreed to join MLS side Los Angeles FC on a free transfer.</b>

Forward Bale, 32, is currently a free agent having left Real Madrid after nine years in Spain.

The five-time Champions League winner had been linked with a return to Tottenham Hotspur as well as a move to home-city club Cardiff.

But Bale's representatives have confirmed he is close to securing a move to LAFC.

The signing of Bale, who joined Real Madrid for a then world-record fee of £85m in 2013, is set to follow LAFC's move for Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini earlier this month.

There was speculation that Bale would end his playing career had Wales missed out on qualification for the 2022 World Cup.

But after Robert Page's side booked their place in Qatar by beating Ukraine in their World Cup play-off final earlier this month, the only question about his future was which club he would join.

BBC
 
I was hoping he’d go to MLS.

He just needs to be fit for November in Qatar. He will retire as soon as Wales get knocked out anyway.
 
Wales captain Gareth Bale is targeting Euro 2024 - and maybe the 2026 World Cup - after declaring he has joined Los Angeles FC for the long term.
 
Wales captain Gareth Bale says he will be in "great shape" for the World Cup after rediscovering his joy for club football at Los Angeles FC.

Bale enjoyed nine trophy-laden years at Real Madrid but his final seasons were tainted by injuries, patchy form and criticism from fans and Spanish media.

The 33-year-old has been rejuvenated by his summer move to LAFC and a warm welcome from the club's supporters.

"It feels nice, the fans have been really supportive over there," he said.

"They've been really patient as well which is good. I'm enjoying playing there, the atmosphere is incredible, they're all supporting the team.

"I can't ask for any more than that. They've made me feel at home straight away. So it's good vibes from the MLS [Major League Soccer] and hopefully that gives me more confidence going into Wales as well.

"The family are now settled in which is a big part. I'm getting stronger and fitter. Now we have an important stretch of games in the MLS, but after that I can turn my attention to the World Cup and hopefully be in the best shape as I possibly can."
 
We are gutted'
FT: Wales 0-2 Iran

Wales captain Gareth Bale told BBC One:

“We are gutted, there is no other way to say it.

“We fought until the last second and we need to go again.

“We are all gutted but we have to pick ourselves up straight away.

“It is going to be difficult for us for sure. We will have to see.

“What can I say? We recover and we have to go again.”
 
'Wales can't keep relying on Bale'

Bale's negligible influence was picked apart by BBC pundits, with former Wales defender James Collins saying the captain will be aware his performance "was not what we'd expect".

The former Real Madrid and Tottenham forward moved to Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC in the summer, but has only started two games in the United States.

He was also quiet in Wales' opener against the USA, but scored a late penalty to rescue a draw.

And concerns are building about Wales' possible over-dependence on the 33-year-old.

"We can't keep relying on Bale to dig us out of trouble by doing something magic or scoring a worldie goal," said Collins on BBC Radio 5 Live.

"He knows he has not performed to the levels we're used to and we expect more."

Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin went further, saying: "If his name was not Gareth Bale, he would have been taken off in the game and he would not play in the next.

"He had no impact and did not try to go past anybody. We know Bale from the past and that did not look like the same guy."
 
We're trying to keep spirits high and stick together - Bale

England v Wales (Tuesday, 19.00 GMT)

Bale is asked about the squad being treated to some Welsh roast lamb cooked by a chef in order to give a taste of home.

The forward says he didn't have any but adds: "It was great to have him come in and cook for the lads.

"We had a little boost, hopefully it gives us a better performance - we'd love nothing more. We're trying to keep spirits high.

"We are happy to be here, but will give everything to qualify for tomorrow."
 
Captain Gareth Bale said he will continue playing for Wales for "as long as I'm wanted" after defeat by England sealed their World Cup elimination.
 
Former Tottenham talisman Gareth Bale has announced his retirement from international and club football. The 33-year-old had considered whether to hang up his boots in the summer after Real Madrid decided against renewing his contract in the Spanish capital before instead joining MLS side LAFC on a 12-month contract.

In a statement posted to Twitter confirming his decision, Bale wrote: "After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.

"I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of highs over 17 seasons, that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me.

"From my very first touch at Southampton to my last with LAFC and everything in between, shaped a club career that I have an immense pride and gratitude for. Playing for and captaining my country 111 times has truly been a dream come true.

"To show my gratitude to all of those that have played their part along this journey, feels like an impossibility. I feel indebted to many people for helping to change my life and shape my career in a way I couldn't have ever dreamed of when I first started out at 9 years old.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/foo...pc=U531&cvid=6430ccce51e343b8b4f30b3cc5a4b45e
 
Not a surprise.
Looked on his last legs in the World Cup.

He’s had a great career.
Happy retirement GB.
 
Showed up in the big games more often than not. He's had a great career however retiring at 33 is still a tragedy for such a talent.
 
Wrexham's Hollywood owners have attempted to coax former Wales captain Gareth Bale out of retirement.

Ryan Reynolds said he'd shave a "professional-grade golf course" into fellow co-owner Rob McElhenney's back to tempt Bale, a keen golfer.

He later took this back, stating that McElhenney did not have the "requisite body hair to support this plan".

Bale retired last January, aged 33, after leading Wales to their first World Cup finals since 1958.
 
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