Bale brushes aside retirement rumors and wants to play for several more seasons
Gareth Bale held his first press conference on Monday since joining Los Angeles FC in MLS. Facing retirement rumors after the 2022 World Cup, the Welshman said he intends to pursue for a few more years.
Recently arrived at Los Angeles FC, Gareth Bale has only signed a one-year contract, until June 2023. The former Real Madrid player’s lease allows him to continue playing, with a view to the Cup World Cup 2022 in Qatar, where Wales are qualified. Faced with rumors announcing the end of his career at the end of this competition, Bale wanted to clarify his desires during his presentation press conference.
« I’m only 32, 33 at the end of the week, and I still have many years ahead of me, » said the striker during his first speech to the media in MLS on Monday. Before adding: « I did not come here to be present only six or twelve months. I came here to try to play as long as possible. »
“Playing here gives me the best opportunity to continue for the next Euros”
With Real Madrid, Gareth Bale remains on a season where he played only seven games in all competitions, for a single goal. Disturbed by injuries, the former Tottenham player will have the opportunity to revive. « I want to do the best I can, leave my mark in this league. Playing here also gives me the best opportunity to continue for the next Euro (2024) and maybe even further, launched Gareth Bale, under -hearing the 2026 World Cup. So my plan is really to work hard. »
As a reminder, the 2026 World Cup will take place in particular in the United States, but also in Mexico and Canada. Euro 2024 will be held in Germany.
After praising the club’s facilities and staff, Gareth Bale noted his wish to last ‘as long as possible’. At the same time, he intends to help develop football in the United States. « For players who have lived a lot in their career, I think we must also have the responsibility to develop this sport worldwide, » said Bale, who also wants to help young players at his club, with Giorgio Chiellini , the other summer recruit.
« It’s a league that’s really growing, » Bale said of MLS. « It’s come a long way in the last ten years and everyone is striving to improve it. The players who come see it, too. I don’t think anyone now sees this league as a pensioner’s league. »
