Friday, 14th March, 2014
Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale has explained that he is enjoying playing football in Spain, which is different from the ‘long ball’ style of play employed in England.
The Welsh international joined the Spanish giants for a record transfer fee of £85m from Tottenham Hotspur in September last year.
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Having struggled with injuries in his initial months, the 24-year-old has impressed at the Santiago Bernabeu with 10 goals in 19 league appearances, and has adapted to a new style of play which he feels is better than he was used to playing in England.
"The big difference is the tactical play and the way all teams play a lot of good football. There are no long balls like there are in England", Bale was quoted as saying by ITV.
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"That is the biggest thing about Spain – it is all passing and movement. It has been a new experience, which I am obviously learning from and enjoying.
"All the teams, no matter if they are at the top or the bottom, try to play football. It is exciting, it is a great league and it is great to be playing here.”
The former Southampton player is also happy with his new life in Spain, both on and off the pitch.
"Naturally it has taken me a bit of time to get used to everything, but I am really enjoying my football and especially the weather", he said.
"I have enjoyed my six months in Spain so far. It took me a bit of time to get up to speed, but I think my performances have come on well.
"I still feel like there is a lot more to come from me. Hopefully, I can keep improving and playing well."
Real Madrid are aiming for a treble this season and Bale will play an important role in the squad, as Carlo Ancelotti’s men, currently leading La Liga, gear up for their Champions League second leg clash against Schalke next week and Clasico against Barcelona on 23rd March, after they face Malaga in a league game this Sunday.
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