Gareth Bale optimistic about future and eyeing long-term commitment to new club Los Angeles FC after leaving Real Madrid
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BySam Few
Published 12/07/2022 at 14:36 GMT
Gareth Bale defiantly played down claims he has signed for Los Angeles FC purely to get fit for the World Cup in November, instead stating his intention to represent the club for the long-term. Bale endured a torrid time at Real Madrid and finally managed to get a move away with LA his destination, where the Welshman is hoping to be part of a bigger project across the pond.
Gareth Bale of Los Angeles FC waves to fans before a game against the Los Angeles Galaxy in the first half at Banc of California Stadium on July 08, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.
Image credit: Getty Images
Gareth Bale insists he has not joined Los Angeles FC for the 'short-term' and instead wants to play a 'big part' in the club's long-term future.
After a tumultuous spell with Real Madrid, where he went from winning the Champions League to being frozen out of the first-team frame, Bale finally managed to secure a move away and signed for LAFC on a free transfer in June - a deal which has the option of a further year until 2024.
The 32-year-old forward took part in his first press conference at the club's stadium on Monday, having seen his new team defeat rivals LA Galaxy just days before, after which he was paraded around the pitch to supporters.
Bale, fuelled by excitement and optimism for his future across the pond, has been quick to play down chatter that he joined LAFC to ensure he is fit enough to feature for Wales at upcoming international tournaments.
"Being here gives me the best possible chance to make it to the Euros and, you never know, maybe one more," Bale said. "I still have many years to come. I haven't come here just to be here for six or 12 months. I've come here to try and be here as long as possible."
"I want to do as well as I can, make my mark on this league and this team, and I'm looking forward to the future. It's not just a short thing. It gives me the best opportunity to keep going to the next Euros, maybe further."
Bale spoke fondly of Major League Soccer, something he says he has watched closely over time, and dismissed criticism regarding the standard of the competition where he believes great improvements are being made.
"I've watched MLS for a long time. The time difference makes it difficult but I always tried to watch it on TV, said Bale." The standard here is really increasing and it's a lot better than people in Europe think. The league is improving, the stadiums are improving, the teams are improving so it's a league that's really on the rise."
"I don't think anyone sees it [MLS] now as a retirement league. It's physical, it's demanding. "This club is new but it feels like it's been here forever. I'm looking forward to being a part of it."
Fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting the Welshman's debut for his new side, with Bale having met his team-mates and trained with the squad, as the next chapter of his career looks set to begin.
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