Gareth Bale was named as of the main culprits for Zinedine Zidane's exit in June. Now, the Welsh ace is once again blamed for Julen Lopetegui's exit as Real Madrid coach.
These harsh words were spoken by Jorge Valdano, who pinned all responsibility on Bale for two reasons: his lack of commitment to the team's tactics and the massive amount of money paid to sign him.
"We keep looking at Bale because of his price tag and that's created this illusion he's some sort of world superstar, but the last five years aren't reflective of what Madrid paid for him," Valdano said.
The former footballer and sporting director for Los Blancos analyzed how Bale's refusal to follow instructions gave way for Barcelona's first goal on Sunday, which eventually forced Real Madrid to try and come from behind.
"Bale was the one in charge of tracking Jordi Alba but after seven minutes his concentration was gone. Alba was on his own down that flank. At the start of the game, the players respected the system and instructions. But then they do what comes naturally to them, as Bale did, and think they have the authority to do whatever they like," the Argentine added.
Valdano's words may come as no surprise, especially since was unconvinced Bale could be called a leader after Cristiano Ronaldo left the club. Even so, Bale will have to step up to earn the hierarchy he thinks he deserves, or this sort of attack will become a regular thing from experts and fans.
