Even before Gareth Bale helped Real Madrid to a 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, his manager put supporters at ease over the Welsh star’s status at the Bernabeu.
Reports Monday suggested that Manchester United has bid more than $110 million for Bale, while others have pegged Karim Benzema for a move to the Premier League via Arsenal.
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Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez said he expects both players to stay happy in Spain and refused to discuss any offers for the players.
From the BBC:“I’m not going to talk about offers,” said Benitez. “Everything is well and Bale’s going to have a good season with us, I’m sure.”
On Benzema, he added: “I think Benzema is going to stay with us. I’m very happy with him.”
Bale’s future has again come under question as Angel Di Maria is close to a £44.5m move from United to Paris St-Germain.
“Gareth is a huge player for us and I know that he’s happy,” added Benitez.
It’s very difficult to believe Madrid would turn down that great deal of money for Bale, but it’s also important to consider the culture around Real. The club considers its major investments as above money, dating back to the need for signing Galacticos.
Keeping Bale and Benzema around Cristiano Ronaldo, James Rodriguez and others will keep Madrid among the favorites for the UEFA Champions League, as the giants search for Undecima.
James also scored for Madrid in the 2-0 win over Spurs, and Bayern Munich awaits in Wednesday’s Audi Cup final. Spurs move on to face AC Milan, who fell 3-0 to the German champions.