Top transfer or “guest star”? Skepticism about Bale’s move to the MLS

Doubts about World Cup fitness

With the laurels of being one of the all-time top signings and future figureheads, Gareth Bale made the summer move to Major League Soccer for Los Angeles FC on a free transfer. In terms of performance alone, the 33-year-old, who would like to attack again with the Welsh national team on a big international stage at the World Cup in Qatar, has so far fallen short of expectations. The right winger has been waiting for a goal for two months, has not made more than short appearances and has only been in coach Steven Cherundolo’s starting XI twice. In his British homeland, meanwhile, skeptical voices are increasing, critically questioning Bale’s move to the USA and his sporting level.

This is how the “Guardians‘ the Welsh record goalscorer smugly as a ‘guest star’ in view of his performance data on Tuesday. After the Nations League defeats against Poland and Belgium, Wales coach Robert Page had previously let it shine through that he was dissatisfied with the fitness of his top star. The attacker only got 28 minutes of playing time against the “Red Devils”. “What he does from now until the first game of the World Cup against USA… We’ll see and keep in touch with the club,” said the coach.

community
Discuss Major League Soccer now in the forumRight this way
The player himself had previously let it be known in a round of media, when asked about his recent dry spell: “We have a plan in LA with what we’re going to do. We don’t do too much at once. Every footballer wants to play as much as possible, but we’re smart and we’re preparing for the last important part of the season. Hopefully that should get me in top shape for the World Cup. I think I’ll be much fitter then.”

Transfermarkt expert Manuel Veth, Area Manager North America, is also certain that Bale’s previous appearances and performances in LA’s jersey are by no means the end of the road: “It was always clear that he primarily went to LAFC to improve himself there to get fit for the World Cup. A change mid-season is always difficult in the MLS, he found a very well-established team there. Coach Steven Cherundolo has therefore relied on the team and the players who have been successful all season.”

LAFC aiming for the title: “If Bale can help with that, then the move is a success”

On the right wing, the Welshman’s regular position, that was primarily captain Carlos Vela. The 33-year-old Mexican currently has a convincing quota of 21 goals (12 goals, 9 assists) in 31 games. Crunch time is yet to come for both the undisputed leaders of the Western Conference LA and Bale, predicts MLS expert Veth:

“Whether Bale is really a success in the league does not depend on the regular season, but rather on the playoffs – the club has to deliver there this year. Having already won the Supporters’ Shield, LAFC are looking to win the title this season and expectations are high. If Bale can help achieve that goal – whether from the bench or in the starting XI – then the move is a success.”

To home page