Santiago Solari: Gareth Bale substitution ‘affected’ Real Madrid

Santiago Solari confessed Gareth Bale’s exit ‘affected’ Real Madrid during their 2-2 draw with Villarreal on Thursday.

“We had the win in our hands and had to kill the game off, but then they pressed and scored the equaliser,” the Coach said after the game, which saw Los Blancos lose Bale to a knock at the break.

“They pressed a lot, were the home team and needed the points, Bale’s exit affected us. He had a problem because of a blow they gave him.

“They pressed well and we lacked depth. Bale took a blow and left the field with a strain. He couldn’t carry on.

“Modric gave everything, Modric had the flu but still gave us a lot of energy and everything he had.

“He made a great effort and had a great game, but he wasn’t able to keep up those energy levels for 90 minutes.

“I’m grateful for what he gave us. The change was planned. There are other players that can play.

“Those players aren’t Ballon d’Or winners, but Valverde gave us energy and control when he came on. He has that stride and we’re happy with the contributions of our young players.

“I don’t think we had a lack of control in the second half. For me, it was more a lack of depth and ability to do damage.

“There were openings for us to score the third goal, but we didn’t come out with enough clarity and there are specialists like Bale who had to be replaced.

“Isco was very good. I’m very happy with his performance.”

Tags Gareth Bale Santiago Solari
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