Bale was often criticised for refusing to learn Spanish
Luka Modrić has come to the defence of Gareth Bale, dispelling the myth that Bale refused to learn Spanish during his time at Real Madrid.
Bale was often singled out for criticism at Madrid, despite his notable contributions to numerous Champions League titles, as repeated injuries and a fractious relationship with Zinedine Zidane saw his role with Los Blancos diminish into little more than a bench warmer.
Modrić, who has played with Bale for most of his playing career, both at Tottenham and Madrid, has said that criticism of the Welshman is not fair.
“I have been with Gareth for most of my professional life and he is a great guy,” Modrić told COPE.
“What people say about Bale isn’t fair. They judge him for the past few years but what he’s done at Madrid is impressive and he will always be remembered as a player who has done a lot for the club.
“He has never had any problems with the dressing room. He’s a great boy.
“He spoke Spanish and joked with us.”
Bale’s game time and influence on the pitch has been limited over the past two seasons, but during the first five years of his spell at Madrid, he often arrived when needed most with a big goal or two.
“In the past few years a lot of things have gone out, and they’ve forgotten what he’s done. When time passes, they’ll remember him and how important he’s been,” Modrić said.
“Everyone has their own behaviour, and his was like this. He didn’t socialise much, but in the dressing room he was great.
“It makes me said that people forget everything he has done.”
If only there were a video that summarised Bale’s rise and fall at Real Madrid, that would be really good, I hear you pondering. Look no further.
Seven years ago, Gareth Bale joined Real Madrid.
This is how he went from hero to zero. pic.twitter.com/cgBZuelB2U
— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) September 2, 2020
