Gareth Bale hails ‘incredible’ LAFC reception

Gareth Bale hailed the “incredible reception” he received after being presented to the Los Angeles FC fans for the first time since his move to the MLS leaders.

The former Real Madrid and Tottenham forward recently joined the MLS franchise on a one-year deal, which could be extended through to 2024, following his departure from Los Blancos.

The Wales international will be hoping for plenty of game time ahead of the World Cup later this year, and what will be the Dragons’ first appearance at the finals since 1958.

Bale arrived in California on Friday and received a rapturous reception at the Banc of California Stadium when he was paraded to the supporters ahead of his new side’s ‘El Trafico’ derby against rivals LA Galaxy.

Bale reception

LAFC ran out 3-2 winners and the 32-year-old is excited by the ongoing project at the franchise formed back in 2014.

“What an incredible reception I had when I came in,” he told ESPN.

“The best prep [for the World Cup] is to play games.

“I want to come here. I want to play games and make my stamp and do as best I can to try and help LAFC win a trophy.

“And I can help with the youngsters because it’s a very young team here, give them advice, seeing what I do in terms of professional standard and try to help them.

“The league is a growing league. It was an exciting opportunity I felt was right for me and my family.

“It’s very new, but it’s something that’s really glamorous. It’s just a very attractive club.”