Gareth Bale Back In Cardiff Ahead Of UEFA Super Cup Between Real Madrid And Sevilla
Welsh footballer Gareth Bale and his Real Madrid teammates are in Cardiff to play the UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla. For Bale — who found his way at the Bernabeu towards the end of last season — it’s a special time, as he returns to play in his hometown.
Los Blancos are going through an exciting period as they are ready to debut with their newest additions, Germany’s Toni Kroos — fresh from his World Cup title victory — and Colombia’s James Rodriguez, the Golden Boot winner at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The two newest members of Real Madrid come to strengthen their already impressive front line, which includes Ballon d’Or winner, Cristiano Ronaldo, Bale, and Karim Benzema.
Even if he has teammates with the names of Cristiano Ronaldo and James, Gareth Bale is still the most expensive player in the world. He couldn’t be more excited for the Super Cup, to be played on Tuesday in front of a supportive crowd, who will be mostly behind Real Madrid.
After completing his first full season with Real Madrid and transitioning successfully from the Premier League, Gareth Bale is ready to display his full potential on the field and what better way to do so than in his hometown of Cardiff. The 25-year-old has been working hard in the off season and unfortunately missed out on the World Cup, since he plays for Wales and not England.
Several photos of Gareth Bale training prior to the UEFA Super Cup and looking super ripped have been posted to Twitter. Take a look:
Gareth Bale: "I have been working hard in the offseason. I feel good." #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/zr7QYbnSWT
— RMadridHome (@RMadridHome) August 11, 2014
Pictures: Toni Kroos and Gareth Bale having a Laughter during Tonight's Training pic.twitter.com/52TPsoY9OQ
— Toni Kroos (@ToniKroosNews) August 11, 2014
gareth bale calf muscle bigger than his thigh lol pic.twitter.com/CY4yJ3ml9s
— (@CountOn24) August 9, 2014
Gareth Bale talked to Sports Sky News about being in shape and the pressures of coming back to Cardiff:
“It’s a lot easier having a pre-season under your belt instead of waiting at home for a transfer to go through.”
“I feel in much better shape this season, I feel I can start at a better tempo and performance so, yeah, I’m looking forward to the season ahead.
“I feel in great shape. I don’t feel the pressure of being back home, it’s obviously a big match that we want to win and a trophy we want to win but it’s another game where I have to put 110% in to try and perform my best.”
Bale added it’s nice not being the new guy on the team. He added that Real Madrid’s goal this year — and every year — is to win any trophy they are competing for. He said, “We’ll be trying to win the league, the Champions League this season.” Manager Carlo Ancelotti added, “Gareth had a fantastic season last year without pre-season and to be in condition took time… He is in perfect condition physically and mentally and I’m sure will do better.”
[Image via Twitter]