sportbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Gareth Bale Refuses To Play For Real Madrid In Pre-Season Friendly

Gareth Bale Refuses To Play For Real Madrid In Pre-Season Friendly

Interesting developments.

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare

Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has claimed that Gareth Bale refused to play in the club's pre-season friendly against Bayern Munich.

Speaking after the club's 3-1 defeat on Sunday, the 47-year-old didn't mince his words when questioned about Bale's future, saying "we hope he leaves soon" in a quite remarkable press conference.

"It would be best for everyone. We are working on his transfer to a new team." he said.

And days later, Zidane has gone one step further by suggesting the Welsh winger didn't play because "he didn't want to."

"I have not disrespected anyone and much less a player (Bale). The club is dealing with his departure. Period." he said via The Mirror.

"The other day Gareth didn't play because he didn't want to. He said the club was trying to negotiate his departure he and didn't want to play because of that.

"So far, Bale hasn't asked not to play tomorrow. Bale's situation is known by everyone and will not change. The club is going to do what they have to do with him.

"I have to respect the players. Bale is with us and will do the same as the others."

Image: PA
Image: PA

Earlier this week, Bale's agent, Jonathan Barnett, didn't hold back when he was asked about Zidane's comments.

"Zidane is a disgrace to speak like that about someone who has done so much for Real," he said.

"If and when Gareth goes it will be because it is in the best interest of Gareth and nothing to do with Zidane pushing."

The latest transfer developments surrounding Bale involves a mega-money move to the Chinese Super League that would see him become the first player in world football to earn £1 million per week.

Where should he move next?

Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Football News, Football, Transfers, gareth bale, Zinedine Zidane, Bayern Munich