Gareth Bale, the five-time winner of the Champions League with Real Madrid, has made a significant return to the sports world as a commentator for the Club World Cup on DAZN after stepping aside from professional football in 2022 at the age of 33. In an exclusive interview with EL MUNDO in New York, he shared his thoughts on various topics, including the current football landscape, tactics, and his enduring affection for Madrid and his former colleagues.
The Allure of the Club World Cup
Bale expressed his views on the ongoing Club World Cup, stating, “I think it’s been a great tournament. At first, people weren’t sure about it, but now that we are in the later stages, you can see much more enthusiasm.” He highlighted the excitement of the semifinal match between PSG and Real Madrid, which showcased high-quality football. The upcoming final between PSG and Chelsea promises an intriguing encounter.
New Beginnings in Commentary
Transitioning into commentary has been a refreshing experience for Bale. “I enjoy it. I think I’m not a commentator per se; I simply share my opinions. It’s been nice to return to football after a few years away, and this is a good way to do it,” he explained. Despite his short detachment from the sport, Bale revealed that he does not miss playing professionally. “I do enjoy watching great matches, like the one between PSG and Madrid,” he confessed.
Player Accountability in Commentary
As an ex-footballer offering insights on screen, Bale acknowledged the importance of speaking thoughtfully about current players. “I always try to think about what I would want someone to say about me if I were on the pitch. Often, there are reasons behind a player’s underperformance that the public isn’t aware of.” He added, “I aim to provide a balanced perspective and not veer into negativity, as many do just for ‘clickbait’ purposes.”
Reflecting on Key Matches
Discussing the recent 4-0 loss of Real Madrid to PSG, Bale noted, “It was a hefty score, but I think the game would have been different without the early errors.” He pointed out that the inherent pressure of chasing a lead against a strong opponent complicates gameplay. “Regardless, when you’re in a knockout phase, the end result is what matters,” he reflected.
PSG: The Current Powerhouse
Bale recognizes PSG as the current best team in Europe. “Everyone enjoys watching PSG. They have an engaging style of play, characterized by high press and intense effort from younger players. They play more as a unit rather than focusing on individual superstars,” he stated. He believes their success in this tournament could solidify their position as the top team globally.
The Evolution of Football Tactics
The football world has undeniably transformed, according to Bale. “Today, it depends more on how coaches strategize than on individual brilliance. The game has evolved into a chess-like battle,” he remarked. He noted that trainers like Pep Guardiola have been instrumental in changing the game dynamics over the years.
The Future of Real Madrid
On the topic of Real Madrid’s future, Bale expressed optimism despite PSG’s current dominance. “You can never count Madrid out. They always remain a threat and are just a step away from reclaiming their elite status,” he emphasized. He highlighted the importance of giving Xabi Alonso time to settle in as a manager, expressing confidence in his ability to return Madrid to winning ways.
Time and Team Dynamics
Bale also discussed the importance of cohesive teamwork. “Xabi has only been in charge for a matter of weeks. After his successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, I believe he will strive to unify the stars’ efforts while allowing their individual talents to shine,” he asserted.
Adeus to Luka Modric
Reflecting on the retirement of Luka Modric, Bale noted the depth of their partnership. “Playing alongside him was a joy. I’ve played more games with Luka than anyone else. His extraordinary career speaks for itself,” he reminisced.
Concerns Over a Crowded Schedule
Lastly, Bale commented on the congested football calendar, voicing concerns for players’ well-being. “There’s too much football. From a player’s perspective, it’s worrying that they may not get adequate rest. The financial aspects of football promote creating more tournaments,” he stated, urging for a better-arranged schedule to allow players time to recuperate.