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Published 12:50 IST, February 20th 2021

Gareth Bale open to Real Madrid reunion despite public conflict with Zidane, claims agent

Gareth Bale's agent has claimed that the Welshman still loves Real Madrid and is open to returning to the team after not playing well on his Spurs comeback.

Reported by: Minaam Ansari
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Tottenham Hotspur superstar Gareth Bale returned to the Premier League last summer, although on a season-long loan. The Wales international struggled for game time at Real Madrid and often ended up in a conflict with manager Zinedine Zidane. With half a season now through, Bale is eager on returning to the Spanish capital despite his struggling relationship with the manager.

Also Read | Gareth Bale’s four goals have cost Spurs Â£1.31M each since his loan move from Real Madrid

Bale Madrid return on cards? Agent reveals player's love for club 

Bale’s agent Jonathan Barnett made these bold claims during an interview with Goal. The 71-year-old claimed that Bale still loves Madrid and he has had no problem with the club. He went on to describe the Bernabeu outfit as a wonderful club, insisting his client wouldn’t mind returning to the Spanish capital next summer.

Barnett insists Real Madrid are the ultimate decision-makers on Bale’s future at the Bernabeu. He went on to claim that Zidane should be asked if he deems the Wales international as an important aspect of his plans for the next season. Barnett’s claims come as a shocker citing the fact that Bale has had an exceptional relationship with Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho.

Also Read | Jose Mourinho unhappy with journalist over query on unused Gareth Bale vs Chelsea

Bale Tottenham stats as rumours of conflict with Mourinho ignite 

Recent reports suggested that the two were not on good terms citing Mourinho’s lack of preference. Indeed, the 31-year-old has racked up just 16 appearances this season, with five goals to his credit, citing injury crisis apart from the Portuguese tactician’s selection policy. But Barnett rubbished off these claims completely.

Barnett said, "They have a good relationship, there is no problem. It’s journalists who create the problem, but there is no problem. We expected him to play more; things haven't gone that well, but the team haven’t gone (as) good as well."

Also Read | Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho opens up on media-hyped Gareth Bale 'Disappointment' claims

Will Bale and Zidane reunite at Bernabeu?

Bale’s move to Spurs appeared beneficial for both the clubs initially. Real Madrid wanted to get him off their books citing his hefty paycheque, while Spurs succeeded in reuniting with their former superstar. Initial reports had suggested that the north Londoners could sign him on a permanent deal once his loan term ends.

But his permanent switch to Spurs looks highly unlikely as he struggles to live up to the hype under Mourinho. Moreover, Zidane would be the last person interested in bringing Bale back citing his injury crisis apart from the age factor.

Also Read | Gareth Bale 'banished' by Real Madrid as LaLiga giants shut out on Spurs star

Image courtesy: Tottenham Twitter 

Updated 12:50 IST, February 20th 2021