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Gareth Bale is a multiple Champions League winner and a true legend of football, especially Welsh. The striker recently helped his country qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 64 years.
Bale has had an amazing career, a truly exceptional player. The former Southampton, Spurs and Real Madrid player has achieved everything he wanted to achieve and could have won the Ballon d’Or if not for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Scoring some amazing goals along the way, Bale will always be known for his amazing overhead kick goal against Liverpool in Champions League football. The Welshman is retiring at the age of 33, currently with LAFC in the MLS.
IMAGO / PA images
Bale issued the following statement; “After careful and considered consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.”
“I feel incredibly happy to have fulfilled my dream of doing the sport I love. It really gave me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of 17 seasons that will be impossible to repeat no matter what awaits me in the next chapter.
“From my first contact with Southampton to my last at LAFC and everything in between, it has shaped a club career that I am proud and thankful for. Playing and captaining my country 111 times was truly a dream come true.
“It seems impossible to show gratitude to everyone who played their part in this journey. I am grateful to so many people for helping me change my life and shape my career in ways I never could have dreamed of when I started at the age of 9.”
“To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All my previous managers and coaches, backroom staff, teammates, all my dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, you have had an immeasurable impact.”
“My parents and my sister, without your dedication in those early days, without such a strong foundation, would not have written this statement now, so thank you for putting me on this path and for your unwavering support.”
IMAGO / PA images
“My wife and my children, your love and support helped me survive. Right beside me through all the ups and downs, keeping me grounded along the way. You inspire me to be better and you make me proud.”
“So I am looking forward to the next phase of my life. A time of change and transformation, a chance for a new adventure.
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