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Gareth Bale has opted for a remarkable continuation of his once glorious career. The 32-year-old hasn’t moved to Wales yet, but to the MLS. He will be teammates with Italian defensive legend Giorgio Chiellini.
Dhe step can confidently be seen as a tangible surprise. Gareth Bale had been linked with a number of clubs, most notably Cardiff City, and a move to his native Wales to join the English second tier side seemed the most promising option ahead of the World Cup. Negotiations have been confirmed.
The offensive player could have gained match practice for the tournament in Qatar at a high level and almost in front of his national coach Rob Page. It is the first World Cup of the former world star, Wales managed to qualify for the first time in 64 years, so the captain of the team is electrified and focused on the upcoming spectacle.
But Bale decided differently now, amazingly differently. Cardiff or Getafe FC, which were also considered, would not have been the big football stage, but he chose the football province. He has practically confirmed his move to America’s Major League Soccer. In the jersey of Los Angeles FC and with a cap on his head, the 32-year-old Welshman presented himself on Twitter on Sunday night. He wrote: “See you soon Los Angeles.”
Only five appearances at Real Madrid last season
The MLS club immediately retweeted Bale’s message. Los Angeles FC is coached by former Bundesliga professional Steven Cherundolo, after Italian defense icon Giorgio Chiellini recently switched there.
According to a report by The Athletic, Bale has agreed to a one-year contract with an option to extend his contract by a further 18 months. His contract with Real Madrid ends this month. Bale joined Los Blancos from Tottenham Hotspur in September 2013.
With a transfer fee of 101 million euros, the attacker was considered the most expensive player in the world at the time. He won the Champions League five times with Real alone, but has not played a major role on the pitch for a long time. Also due to injury, he made just five appearances in the league with the new Spanish champions last season. His designated new club currently leads the Western Conference in MLS.