Welsh superstar and LAFC Forward Gareth Bale, has announced his retirement from professional football on Monday after an 18-year career.
Bale, 33, joined LAFC in June after leaving Real Madrid in Spain’s top flight. He scored one of the most memorable goals in MLS history, a towering extra-time header that sent the Black & Gold to the MLS Cup 2022 finals.
“We want to express our gratitude to Gareth for all that he contributed to our club,” said LAFC co-president and general manager John Thorrington. “He joined us with the goal of winning championships in LA, and he achieved that goal, just as he has done throughout his career. It was a privilege to have such a talented, exciting player of Gareth’s calibre end his career with a title for LAFC, and we wish him, his wife Emma, and their family all the best in their future endeavours.”
Bale, one of the most well-known players in MLS history, scored three goals in 13 games for LAFC. He also helped them win the Supporters’ Shield, making them the eighth MLS team to do so in a single season.
Bale won 21 trophies in a club career that began at Southampton and was once the most expensive player transfer in the world when he moved from Tottenham to Real Madrid. He has five UEFA Champions League titles in his trophy cabinet.
Bale captained Wales to their first FIFA World Cup appearance in 64 years this winter, and he leaves the Dragons as the all-time leader in appearances (111) and goals (40). Bale stated his intention to compete in the 2024 Euros following Wales’ Group B exit in Qatar. But things changed.
In the statement he released on his official Twitter handle, Bale said:
“After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.”
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of highs over 17 seasons, that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me.”
“From my very first touch at Southampton to my last with LAFC and everything in between, shaped a club career that I have an immense pride and gratitude for. Playing for and captaining my country 111 times has truly been a dream come true.”
“To show my gratitude to all of those that have played their part along this journey, feels like an impossibility. I feel indebted to many people for helping to change my life and shape my career in a way I couldn’t have ever dreamed of when I first started out at 9 years old.”
“To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All of my previous managers and coaches, back room staff, team mates, all the dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, the impact you have had is immeasurable.”
“My parents and my sister, without your dedication in those early days, without such a strong foundation, I wouldn’t be writing this statement right now, so thank you for putting me on this path and for your unwavering support.”
“My wife and my children, your love and support has carried me through. Right beside me for all the highs and lows, keeping me grounded along the way. You inspire me to be better, and to make you proud.”
“So, I move on with anticipation to the next stage of my life. A time of change and transition, an opportunity for a new adventure…”
With Bale’s departure, LAFC will undoubtedly have a vacant Designated Player position to fill alongside strikers Carlos Vela and Denis Bouanga for the 2023 campaign.
