Lopetegui praises Bale after retirement - The Athletic

Julen Lopetegui has said it was a pleasure to manage Gareth Bale during their time together at Real Madrid while also suggesting he didn't hit the heights he was capable of reaching.Bale announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33 on Monday, bringing an end to a career which saw him win five Champions Leagues at the Spanish side.Lopetegui managed Bale during his four-month spell as manager at the Santiago Bernabeu which left an impression on the Spanish tactician."I have seen a lot of players, and I can guarantee you that Gareth has a lot of strengths," said the Wolves boss."Physically and technically. When the demands are at a very high level, it’s not easy for anyone. The character and demands can make the difference."But he was a fantastic player and I enjoyed him for many months."(Photo: David S. Bustamante/Soccrates /Getty Images)

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