After the star forward announced that he was quitting his position as a player, Wales manager Rob Page wants Gareth Bale to remain a part of the international team.
After the star forward announced that he was quitting his position as a player, Wales manager Rob Page wants Gareth Bale to remain a part of the international team.
Bale, who played for Real Madrid and won five Champions Leagues, retired on Monday after winning 111 caps and scoring 41 goals for his country, both records for the men’s team.
After Wales’ disappointing World Cup performance in Qatar, where Page’s team failed to advance beyond their group and Bale struggled due to a lack of match fitness, the 33-year-old made the decision to step down.
Page said that Bale called him on Sunday to tell him that he had decided to retire and that he agreed wholeheartedly with his captain.
He told the BBC, “I told him I think it’s the right time to bow out.” You have everything on your resume, and what you have done for this nation is unbelievable.
You just scored in the World Cup. Page confirmed that Bale, who was playing in the MLS for Los Angeles FC. Would have been selected to play in that doubleheader against Latvia and Croatia, possibly with an impactful bench role.
In March, Wales begins their qualifying campaign for Euro 2024. He stated, “There’s a mixture of emotions for me.” I’m excited right now because it’s a chance to get some young players through. Like Brennan Johnson, who should take it and step up, and get the next Gareth Bale”.
Page stated that he had discussed with Bale the possibility of him remaining in the Wales set-up. Though the specific nature of any potential role is still unknown.
He stated, “I would love him still to be involved in some capacity. But I don’t know what that role is yet.” Going back to a more normal life is a big change for him. But we’ll talk to him again in a few weeks.