Wales and Real Madrid’s legend Gareth Bale retires from football

The veteran forward believes it is the right time to call time on his football career.

Former Real Madrid and Tottenham player Gareth Bale announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33.

After more than a decade at the top of the sport, the former Wales international believes the right time has come to bring an end to his glittering career.

Bale, who annouced his retirement via a set of tweets, represented his country at the recently concluded FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where he scored to take his tally to 41 goals in 111 appearances. He his Wales most-capped and higher goal-scorer.

As a footballer, he started as a full-back but was converted to a prolific winger during his early days at Tottenham Hotspur.

He rose to prominence as a prolific winger during his time with Spanish giants Real Madrid, where he won the Champions League five times, the Spanish La Liga title three times and also a Copa del Ray trophy.

“After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football,” Bale wrote in his first of two tweets.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. From my very first touch at Southampton to my last with LAFC and everything in between, shaped a club career that I have an immense pride and gratitude for.

“Playing for and captaining my country 111 times has truly been a dream come true. To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All of my previous managers and coaches, back room staff, team mates, all the dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, the impact you have had is immeasurable.

“So, I move on with anticipation to the next stage of my life. A time of change and transition, an opportunity for a new adventure.”