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Bale has no plan to retire after the 2022 World Cup

Phenomenal
Phenomenal

Mueez Ajao

– Wales captain Gareth Bale is targeting Euro 2024 – and maybe the 2026 World Cup – after declaring he has joined Los Angeles FC for the long term.

– The 32-year-old forward joined LAFC on a free transfer from Real Madrid, with an option to stay for the 2024 season.

– Bale dismissed the notion he has only signed in order to be fit for the World Cup later this year.

Also Read: Bale receives warm welcome from LAFC fans

– “Being here gives me the best possible chance to make it to the Euros and, you never know, maybe one more,” he said.

– “I still have many years to come. I haven’t come here just to be here for six or 12 months. I’ve come here to try and be here as long as possible.

– “I want to do as well as I can, make my mark on this league and this team, and I’m looking forward to the future. It’s not just a short thing.

– “It gives me the best opportunity to keep going to the next Euros, maybe further.”

– Bale was speaking at his first news conference as an LAFC player at the club’s Banc of California Stadium on Monday, having arrived in the United States last Friday.

– Hours after landing in California, Bale watched from the stands as LAFC beat city rivals LA Galaxy 3-2 before being introduced to the crowd after the game.

– The five-time Champions League winner described the welcome as “incredible” and, having joined his new team-mates for a first training session this week, he is now looking forward to making his debut for the high-flying Major League Soccer side.

– Bale’s comments will also be a source of great relief and excitement for Wales fans, who are looking forward to their country’s first appearance at a World Cup since 1958 in Qatar later this year.

– There had been speculation Bale would retire if Wales failed to qualify but, as well as stating his long-term commitment to LAFC, Bale appeared to hint at a desire to play at the 2026 World Cup.

– “I haven’t come here for the short term,” he said.

– “I think being here gives me the best possible chance to make it to the Euros and, you never know, maybe one more.

– “That’s my goal. I’m here to play a big part and I’m really looking forward to getting started.

– “I’ve watched the MLS for a long time. The time difference makes it difficult but I always tried to watch it on TV.

– “The standard here is really increasing and it’s a lot better than people in Europe think. The league is improving, the stadiums are improving, the teams are improving so it’s a league that’s really on the rise.

– “I don’t think anyone sees it [MLS] now as a retirement league. It’s physical, it’s demanding.

– “This club is new but it feels like it’s been here forever. I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”

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