The announcement of Gareth Bale’s retirement from the club and international football was made. Last year, the forward led Wales to their first FIFA World Cup.
On Monday, Welsh legend Gareth Bale said that he would no longer play club or international football. The 33-year-old led Wales to their first FIFA World Cup since 1958 and two UEFA Euros.
He won five Champions League titles in nine years with Real Madrid, from 2013 to 2022. Bale started out in Southampton’s renowned academy as a left-back.
In 2007, he moved to Tottenham, where he gradually became a left winger and reached new heights. He moved to Real Madrid following his heroics with Tottenham, where he played from 2013 to 22.
He then ended his career with Los Angeles FC. Fans were shocked when the forward announced the news on social media, with some still hoping for a return to European football.
“I consider myself extremely fortunate to have fulfilled my dream of playing my favorite sport. I have truly experienced some of my most memorable experiences.
The highest of my 17 seasons, which I will never be able to match, regardless of what the next chapter holds for me. It has truly been a dream come true to have represented my country 111 times and served as captain.
It seems impossible for me to express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this journey. I owe a lot of people for helping me change my life and shape my career in ways I could never have imagined when I started at age nine.
“To my previous teams, LAFC, Real Madrid, Southampton, and Tottenham. The impact you have had on me, my previous managers and coaches, back office staff, and teammates. Devoted fans, agents, and amazing friends and family are incalculable.
As a result, I look forward to the next phase of my life with excitement. A period of transition and change, an opportunity for a new adventure,” Bale said in his conclusion.