Gareth Bale: See what LAFC players did to former Real Madrid star

Gareth Bale Real Madrid

Gareth Bale became a free agent after leaving Real Madrid at the end of last season.

The 32 year old Wales international has since joined MLS team Los Angeles FC (LAFC).

Gareth Bale – who had only arrived in Los Angeles on Friday morning – was presented to the LAFC fans ahead of their 3-2 victory over LA Galaxy and received a standing ovation from the sold-out Banc of California stadium.

Former Real Madrid star Gareth Bale wasn’t quite ready to play in the LA derby, but he got an up-close look at the passion and potential of his new club – having been filmed cheering from the stands and celebrating on the pitch afterwards. 

Bale took to the field after LAFC’s 3-2 victory over LA Galaxy and grabbed a megaphone to lead a postgame chant with their fans while his new team-mates doused him with water.

“You saw how quickly a player gets integrated into our circle,” LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo said. “We will get Gareth in [kit] ASAP.

“He was ready tonight, but I think it would have been asking a little much to have him come off the plane and right into the game.”

While LAFC midfielder Kellyn Acosta added: “We’re all excited to have him join our squad. We think he’s a key addition. 

“It was huge for him to be a part of our celebration, to see the atmosphere here at the Banc with the 3252 [supporters’ association].”

Gareth Bale, who became a free agent after leaving Real Madrid at the end of last season, signed for LAFC in a bid to gain more regular game time ahead of the World Cup. 

His current deal in LA takes him up to June 2023 when next year’s MLS season will be only halfway through. However, Bale has an option to continue for 18 months beyond that should his family settle and he is enjoying his football.