Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has said that Champions League match winner Gareth Bale will have to consider his future at the club but that he can understand his desire for more playing time next season.
Bale scored two goals off the bench for Madrid in a 3-1 win over Liverpool in Kiev to secure the club’s third consecutive Champions League title.
Bale started just 20 games this season for Madrid and played over 1000 less minutes than he did at his final season with Tottenham but Zidane insists that Madrid need a squad with depth next season to sustain their level of success.
“[Bale’s] situation is a bit more complicated,” Zidane said in reference to Cristiano Ronaldo’s remarks that he also may leave the club next season.
“Everyone has their own interests and future to think about. This is a squad and nothing will change. As I always do, I try to do my best and the best for the team.
“From time to time, some players deserve more time on the pitch, and I understand a player who wants to play more.
“He made the difference on the pitch tonight so it is natural for him to want more playing time.”
Bale was interviewed on eir sport after the game and he could barely contain his frustration at the season he’s had.
"I need to be playing week in, week out" – Will we see Gareth Bale in the Premier League next season? #UCLFinal pic.twitter.com/xTwKTLZylR
— eir Sport (@eirSport) May 26, 2018
“Obviously, I need to be playing. I need to be playing week in, week out. That hasn’t happened this season for one reason or another,” he said in frustration.
“I had a five, six week injury at the start of the season but I’ve been fit ever since. Obviously, I’ll have to sit down with my agent and discuss it, and we’ll take it from there.”
“I was disappointed not to start, I felt I deserved it…but you have to keep working until the end.”
