Former Tottenham talisman Gareth Bale announced his retirement from international and club football on Monday evening. The 33-year-old had considered whether to hang up his boots in the summer after Real Madrid decided against renewing his contract in the Spanish capital before instead joining MLS side LAFC on a 12-month contract.
Following his announcement, the footballing world reacted to his decision, with one of these figures being Pep Guardiola. The Manchester City manager went as far as to offer the Welshman an invite.
Guardiola who admits he’s a fan of the former Tottenham winger has invited him out for a round of golf and hopes now that he’s retired he’ll have extra of time on his hands to accept an invitation.
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He told reporters about his plans to spend more time with Bale: “He was busy, maybe now he has time, I will invite him again,”
The Spaniard also touched on how he wanted to sign the former Real Madrid winger, but his price tag proved to be a sticking point. He said: ““Too expensive! what a player. Fantastic career, won a lot of things. I think he represents Wales with more than 100 caps and now he can become a fantastic golf player.”
In a statement posted to Twitter confirming his retirement decision, Bale wrote: "After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.
"To show my gratitude to all of those that have played their part along this journey, feels like an impossibility. I feel indebted to many people for helping to change my life and shape my career in a way I couldn't have ever dreamed of when I first started out at 9 years old.
"To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All of my previous managers and coaches, backroom staff, teammates, all the dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, the impact you have had is immeasurable.
"My parents and my sister, without your dedication in those early days, without such a strong foundation, I wouldn't be writing this statement right now, so thank you for putting me on this path and for your unwavering support.
Over two separate spells at Tottenham, Bale featured 237 times for the Lilywhites and directly contributed towards 132 goals. His impressive displays for the north London outfit helped the club lift the League Cup in 2008 before eventually securing a move to Real Madrid, which would be his last European club.
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