‘Bale will be better this year’

Carlo Ancelotti has predicted Gareth Bale will have an even better season this year than last after getting a full pre-season under his belt.

Bale was on target during last night’s 1-1 draw with Inter, netting a spectacular long-range strike that was cancelled out by Mauro Icardi’s penalty.

Ancelotti also touched on whether or not Real Madrid need to sign a new striker, the arrival of James Rodriguez and the rumoured exit of Angel Di Maria.

On the subject of the Wales international, Ancelotti said that experiencing pre-season with Madrid will benefit Bale, after he joined late last summer.

“I think he can enjoy this period as he didn’t have it last year when we officially started playing,” the Italian said, according to Marca.

“Bale will improve this year, I think. It will be different for him, especially early in the season. He’ll look fresh and in good condition.”

With a number of Madrid’s big names not yet back in training after the World Cup, the team fielded by Ancelotti contained a host of youngsters.

The inexperienced members of the side caught Ancelotti’s eye, however, the Coach praising the contribution of the newcomers.

“I’m pleased that the young players had a good game, with personality,” he said.

“We’ve given minutes to players who needed it. I think some of the young players have shown great personality and that’s good for the cantera.”

Tags Carlo Ancelotti Gareth Bale
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