Gareth Bale, the beloved Tottenham Hotspur icon, has embarked on a new journey this week as he prepares for the Europa League final in Bilbao. The Welsh winger has transitioned from his illustrious football career to a role as a pundit for TNT Sports.
Bale's retirement in 2023 marked the end of an impressive career that saw him win numerous accolades at Real Madrid, including five Champions Leagues, three La Ligas, three Club World Cups, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. Despite his success abroad and being named Wales' footballer of the year six times consecutively, it is his time at Spurs that resonates most with fans.
During two separate stints with Tottenham Hotspur, Bale made 237 appearances for the club and contributed significantly to its success by scoring 71 goals and providing 53 assists. His only trophy with Spurs was their last triumph - winning the 2008 League Cup.
New beginnings
Post-retirement from professional football after a brief stint at MLS club LAFC, Bale has maintained a low profile. His punditry career so far has been selective; however this week marks his return in front of camera as he joins Rio Ferdinand, Glenn Hoddle and Paul Scholes in Bilbao for TNT Sports' coverage of Europa League final.
Earlier this season in November 2024 he appeared on TNT Sports during Liverpool's Champions League clash with Real Madrid. This upcoming appearance will be another significant milestone in his budding punditry career.
High stakes match-up
The stakes are high for both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United ahead of Wednesday night's match-up. Both teams have struggled domestically this season sitting uncomfortably at 17th and 16th respectively prior to the final.
The winner of the Europa League final will secure a spot in next season's Champions League, which could significantly impact both teams' transfer window plans. Fans eager to watch the final can do so for free in the UK on Wednesday night via the Discovery+ app.
Bale, who is fondly remembered by Spurs fans, will be hoping that his former club can end their 17-year trophy drought while he is in attendance. His insights and analysis as a pundit will undoubtedly add an extra layer of intrigue to this highly anticipated match-up.
