Zidane: Bale won’t play against Sporting and we’ll see about Bayern

A calf injury has ruled Gareth Bale out of action against Sporting Gijon, Zinedine Zidane confirmed, although he is hopeful of having him back against Bayern Munich.

The Welshman started Los Blancos’ 2-1 Champions League win at the Allianz Arena but bowed out early with discomfort.

While Zidane admitted that it was upsetting for Bale given his injury problems this season, he acknowledged that the club would take no unnecessary risks.

“Bale will not be with us against Sporting, that much is clear, and going forward, then we will see,” Zidane told the assembled media.

“He has a small bruise and that’s why we aren’t going to take any risks with him. He has had problems in that calf area before so that’s why we are understandably worried.

“Bale isn’t happy of course because he always wants to play and be with the team. He was very excited when he came back but he knows it is nothing serious.

“It is just a setback after returning from his ankle injury to play a lot of games and go through a lot of training.

“In addition to Bale, the Frenchman also has problems in defence as both Raphael Varane and Pepe are injured and Dani Carvajal is suspended, leading to a selection headache with Bayern and Barcelona both to come the following week.

“We do have difficulties at the back due to injuries but we also have players who are ready and we will work with the guys we have, I just hope nobody else gets injured,” he continued.

“What I can say is that I see a very enthusiastic, focus and above all motivated team. I have a great team here who are so professional.”

 

SOURCE: MARCA