I didn't disrespect Gareth Bale, says Real boss Zinedine Zidane
The 2019 summer transfer window has been headlined by the situation surrounding Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale. Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane had said earlier that it is best for everyone if Bale leaves the club. Now the Frenchman has stated that he never meant to disrespect Bale with his comments. Here are the details.
How things have shaped up in Bale's transfer saga
A lot has happened over the last few days regarding Bale's situation. Real are believed to be working on his departure as reports have linked him with a move to China. Bale's agent, Jonathan Barnett, targeted Zidane claiming that the legend has no respect for his client and also called his actions disgraceful. Zidane has cleared the air by saying he never disrespected anyone.
I haven't shown a lack of respect towards anyone: Zidane
"I haven't shown a lack of respect towards anyone. What I said the other day is that the club was working on Bale's exit. I've always said the same thing: the players are the most important ones in all of this," he said.
Bale didn't take part in pre-season match against Bayern
Zidane, who returned last term for a second stint as the manager of Real, was speaking ahead of the club's pre-season match against Arsenal in the US. Prior to this game, Real faced Bayern Munich. Bale didn't feature and there were speculations that Zidane had opposed his participation in the match, which Real lost 1-3. However, Zidane opened up on why Bale didn't play.
Bale didn't want to feature against Bayern: Zidane
"Gareth didn't come on [against Bayern Munich] because he didn't want to, and he said it was because the club was working on his exit," stated Zidane. Zidane confirmed that Bale could be in consideration against Arsenal. "The club is doing what it has to do. Bale is currently part of the squad and I respect that. That's the most important thing for me."
Not a happy ending for Bale at Real Madrid
Bale has three years left on his contract, but he is destined to leave. Across six seasons at Real, Bale featured in 231 matches and scored 102 goals. The former Spurs player won a total of 13 trophies during his time here. He wanted to end his career with Real as his family is well settled in Madrid, but it looks unlikely.
Bale delivered for Real, deserved respect
Bale was a success at Real in terms of goals, assists and trophies won. He delivered in the biggest games. His best outing was the 2017-18 Champions League win against Liverpool. In 2013-14 UCL finale, it was his decisive header in the 110th minute that gave Real the impetus against arch-rivals Atletico. This author believes this situation should have been handled gracefully.
