Real Madrid post 45-word farewell to four-time Champions League winner Gareth Bale

Bale deserves better

Real Madrid have confirmed Gareth Bale's return to Tottenham Hotspur, publishing a 50-word statement on their website. With the usual 'comunicado oficial' headline, Madrid confirmed the worst kept secret in football with a short statement, wishing Bale good luck at Spurs. "Real Madrid C. F. and Tottenham Hotspur FC have agreed to the loan of Gareth Bale for next season, until 30 June, 2021. Our club wishes the best of luck to a player who is part of one of the most successful periods of our history." Yes, he was part of one of the most successful periods of your history. In fact, he kickstarted that period. Before he arrived, Real Madrid hadn't won the Champions League for 11 years. Bale fixed that, scoring the winner in the 2014 final and playing crucial roles in three more. He also scored 105 goals in 251 games across seven years, despite missing around half of the possible minutes he could have played, largely though injury. Bale doesn't seem to care about his treatment from the press and the fans in Spain, but he will be pleased to know his contributions will not be taken for granted by the Tottenham faithful.