Zinedine Zidane says Gareth Bale set for Real Madrid departure
Written by News on 21/07/2019
Gareth Bale is very close to leaving Real Madrid, according to Zinedine Zidane.
The Welshman did not feature in Real Madrid’s 3-1 International Champions Cup defeat to Bayern Munich in Houston on Saturday night.
Real boss Zidane said Bale’s omission from the matchday squad was because he is on the verge of sealing a departure from the club.
“Bale did not play because he is very close to leaving,” Zidane told reporters.
“We hope he leaves soon, it would be best for everyone. We are working on his transfer to a new team.
“I have nothing personal against him, but there is a time where things are done because they must be done, I have to make decisions, we have to change,” Zidane added.
“The exit is the coach’s decision, and also of the player, who knows the situation.
“The situation will change, I do not know if in 24 or 48 hours, but it will, and it’s a good thing for everyone.”
Bale’s representative Jonathan Barnett has reacted furiously to Zidane’s comments, telling AFP: “Zidane is a disgrace, he shows no respect for a player that has done so much for Real Madrid.”
Barnett did confirm Bale is in the process of leaving the Bernabeu, saying: “We are working on it.”
In the build-up to Saturday night’s clash with Real, Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantra said like any top player, Bale would be welcomed at the Allianz Arena.
Bayern are desperate to add attacking flair to their first XI following the departures of creative duo Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben at the end of last season.
Their pursuit of Hudson-Odoi appears to have hit the buffers, with Chelsea hopeful he will stay at Stamford Bridge after Frank Lampard reiterated his desire for the England international to commit his future to the club and sign a new contract.
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(c) Sky News 2019: Zinedine Zidane says Gareth Bale set for Real Madrid departure
