Zidane hints at Bale exit

Returning Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has been less than supportive about Gareth Bale’s future at the club. 

The Frenchman took over again after Santiago Solari’s exit this season, and was asked about 29-year-old Bale’s future. Rather than say Bale was assured of staying, he said: “Gareth’s future and other players, we’ll talk about that at the end of the season.” 

***: Bale has been an underwhelming presence in Spain for at least two years, and his injury problems mean he isn’t a reliable first-team player even if he is at the top of his game. He has also failed to properly learn Spanish in his time there, so it might make sense to bring in someone who is willing to make the most of playing for the biggest club in the world.