Gareth Bale will make a decision on his club future by February after telling Wales he is ready to play on with them.
Bale achieved one of his greatest ambitions by leading Wales to their first World Cup since 1958. Despite a disappointing showing in Qatar by Bale and the Dragons, the veteran, 33, has pledged to continue playing for his country if needed.
Boss Rob Page and Football Association of Wales officials feel Bale can still play a huge role as a squad member helping nurture their young players even if he is more of a substitute in future.
In the meantime, Bale must decide next year where to continue playing his club football after putting retirement plans on hold. He ended his debut season in the America with Los Angeles FC as a trophy winner after scoring in the MLS Cup final.
He has the option to continue his deal with LAFC for another season but he only made two starts and 13 appearances in total for them.
An emotional return to Cardiff has also been mooted but sources close to the star reckon he is more likely to stay in the US for another MLS season, which starts in late February.
He could stay with LAFC or seek a new club, which would enable Bale to continue to play for his beloved Wales, for whom he has scored a record 41 goals in 111 appearances.
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Wales return to action on March 25, 2023 away in Croatia in Euro 2024 qualifying Group D, which also includes Latvia, Armenia and Turkey. Wales have reached the last two Euros and Page believes Bale and the squad’s fellow veterans can help them make it three on the spin.
This is despite Wales finishing bottom of Group B in Qatar after drawing with United States and losing to Iran and England, when Bale was subbed at half-time with a hamstring injury.
The ace won and converted a late penalty against USA to earn a late 1-1 draw but has admitted to pals he knows he wasn’t at his best in the tournament as age and injuries catch up with him.
