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СпутникиРНSpaceXРоскосмосNASAGareth Bale has returned to LAFC to give his goodbyes to his former teammates after announcing his retirement this week at the age of 33.
By JACK BEZANTS, US DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR
Published: 09:29 EDT, 14 January 2023 | Updated: 10:38 EDT, 14 January 2023
Gareth Bale has returned to LAFC to give his goodbyes to his former teammates after announcing his retirement this week at the age of 33.
Bale moved to Los Angeles seven months ago and won the MLS Cup with the team, scoring a dramatic 128th minute equalizer to take the game to penalties against Philadelphia Union, which his team then won.
On Friday, the Welshman toasted that victory one last time with his old teammates as they gathered for preseason training ahead of the next MLS campaign starting in February.
He was pictured being greeted by the likes of Giorgio Chiellini, Carlos Vela and Ryan Hollingshead.
Gareth Bale, pictured with Giorgio Chiellini, has returned to LAFC to say goodbye in person
Bale announced his retirement in the week at the age of 33 after a seven-month spell at LAFC
Bale also recorded a message for the team's fanbase, saying: 'Hi all LAFC fans and 3252.
'I just want to say thank you for my welcome being here in LA and it has been an amazing experience.
'To win the MLS Cup together and create lasting memories, it's something I'll never forget. So thank you very much.'
LAFC itself tweeted out the images of Bale back at the club and captioned the images with: 'You'll always be welcome here'.
Bale played 13 times overall for LAFC and scored three goals. His departure opens up a 'Designated Player' spot on the LAFC roster.
When the 2022 Major League Soccer season ended, Bale played at the World Cup for Wales. They crashed out at the group stage but tied 1-1 with the United States and Bale scored the goal for Wales from the penalty spot.
Announcing his retirement, Bale said: 'After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.
The highlight of Bale's time on the west coast was his MLS Cup triumph with LAFC
Bale scored a 128th minute header to take the final to penalties, where LAFC beat Philadelphia
'I feel incredibly fortunate to have realized my dream of playing the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of highs over 17 seasons, that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me.
'From my very first touch at Southampton to my last with LAFC and everything in between, shaped a club career that I have an immense pride and gratitude for. Playing for and captaining my country 111 times has truly been a dream come true.'
LAFC's season starts on February 25 with a hotly anticipated game against crosstown rival Los Angeles Galaxy.