Was Gareth Bale a Success at Madrid?

By Anna Duncan

Gareth Bale’s transfer to Real Madrid in 2013 was one of the most significant events in football history. The Welshman was signed for a then-world record transfer fee of €100 million, and expectations were sky-high. Six years later, as Bale is set to move on from Madrid, the question arises – was he a success at the Spanish giants?

The Early Years

Bale’s first season at Madrid was a mixed bag. He struggled with injuries and took time to settle into the team.

However, he did score crucial goals in both the Copa del Rey and Champions League finals, helping Madrid lift both trophies. His performances in those games showed glimpses of his immense talent and potential.

The Golden Years

The next few seasons saw Bale establish himself as one of the best players in the world. He formed a devastating trio with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, known as “BBC,” that terrorized opposition defenses. Bale’s speed, power, and technical ability made him a nightmare for defenders to deal with.

During this period, Bale won numerous trophies with Madrid, including four Champions League titles and two La Liga titles. He also scored some iconic goals along the way – his overhead kick against Liverpool in the 2018 Champions League final will forever be remembered as one of the greatest goals ever scored.

The Decline

However, injuries began to take their toll on Bale. He missed significant chunks of playing time each season due to various fitness problems. His relationship with manager Zinedine Zidane also deteriorated over time – the Frenchman preferred other players over Bale despite his undeniable quality.

In recent seasons, Bale has become a peripheral figure at Madrid. He has spent more time on the bench or in the stands than on the field and has struggled for form when given opportunities. Many fans have criticized him for not showing enough effort and commitment to the team.

The Verdict

So, was Gareth Bale a success at Madrid? The answer is complicated.

On one hand, he played a significant role in some of the club’s biggest triumphs in recent years and produced moments of magic that will live long in the memory. On the other hand, injuries and a lack of playing time have hindered his progress, and his relationship with the club has soured over time.

Ultimately, it is up to individual interpretation whether Bale’s time at Madrid was a success or not. However, there is no denying that he has left an indelible mark on the club’s history – for better or for worse.