
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand has predicted that Gareth Bale will retire once his Real Madrid contract is up after last year’s loan with Tottenham.
The Welshman has had a torrid few years. Fitness problems, injuries and fallings out with managers have led to him barely playing any football and it seems as though he’s lost a lot of love for the game.
Bale’s contract with Real Madrid is up next summer, and nobody knows what his next move will be, but despite the fact he’s only 32 years old, Rio Ferdinand believes that the Wales star will choose to hang up his boots.
What’s been said?
Ferdinand gave his view on Bale.
“I think he’ll retire. I just don’t see where he goes. He’ll have to sacrifice a lot, his wages will come down massively, and then it’s about appetite. I don’t doubt his appetite, but that has to be the question in terms of will he play for a considerably less amount of money, and then it’s about who has the finances to pay what is still going to be a big money. Do they believe in him to have the ability to change the fortunes of their club? Spurs tried it and it didn’t really work out, who’s going to be next? If it’s someone below Spurs will Gareth Bale be willing to take that drop?” Ferdinand said.

Incredible legacy
Regardless of what Bale does next, it has to be said that he’ll leave behind an incredible legacy.
He took Wales to the semi-finals of the Euros, won four Champions Leagues, scoring in two finals and he was one of the best players the Premier League has ever seen.
When all is said and done, Bale may go down as one of the best British players of all time.
It would be a real shame if Bale decided to retire early, but with very little left to prove, we wouldn’t blame him if he decided to call it a day.

Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
