Former Real Madrid player Gareth Bale has made some surprising statements about his time at the club, particularly about the coaches he worked with during his time in Madrid.
Bale was part of Real Madrid during the club's most successful period in the 21st century and played alongside many stars at the peak of their form.
The Welshman, often a controversial figure in the Spanish capital due to criticism from some in the media, told Stick to Football, as quoted by Diario AS, that he had a very good relationship with Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, despite speculation of tension between them. He also described Sergio Ramos as the absolute leader of the dressing room.
Speaking about coaches, Bale compared Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti, with whom he worked during his time at Madrid.
"Zidane was very respected for what he had been as a player. Whereas Carlo's management was the best; even when you weren't playing, he made you feel like your best friend. He had the ability to keep everyone happy and ready to give their best. At Real Madrid it's not just about training, it's about managing the players. Ancelotti was like your best friend, but if you didn't train well... he would criticize you without hesitation. Even at half-time, that happened, but he had a perfect balance," Bale said.
For Zidane, Bale revealed that the tactical work in training was minimal.
"We didn't do much tactical work. We did the bare minimum: drills, possession, shooting and that's it. Only about 15 minutes on defensive tactics. But he was gaining respect for what he had been as a player."
However, Bale stressed that Carlo Ancelotti is the best coach he has ever worked with.
He also revealed that at Real Madrid the absolute priority is the UEFA Champions League.
"Real Madrid prioritizes the Champions League. The president is always there the day before the match and no one wants to disappoint him. He is very passionate about football and wants to leave a legacy. That makes him the best president in the history of Real Madrid," Bale said of Florentino Pérez.
President Pérez has been criticised by some fans this season, both for his team-building and the quick dismissal of Xabi Alonso. Bale said that at Real Madrid, coaches need to adapt their approach to the players.
"I wasn't surprised they sacked Xabi. At Real Madrid, if you overdo the tactical stuff, the players don't like you... you have to be a great manager, not necessarily an extraordinary strategist."
Meanwhile, it remains unclear who will lead the team in the future at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, as confidence in current coach Álvaro Arbeloa appears to be waning.
t7 live
