Gareth Bale offered a less than convincing response to Carlo Ancelotti claiming he has a future at Real Madrid.
The Welshman sparked wild speculation at the end of the season when he admitted the decision on his future would cause “chaos”.
That led to some believing the 31-year-old could call time on his career following Wales’ Euro 2020 campaign.
The player’s agent Jonathan Barnett has since rubbished that suggestion, but time and time again, Bale has failed to follow suit.
During Wales’ final preparations, the winger has been asked on several occasions about his future and retirement rumours, opting to remain coy on each occasion.
Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s return as Real boss has heightened the chances of Bale returning to the Bernabeu, with the pair enjoying a close relationship during the Italian’s first stint in charge.
“He has not played much in England,” Ancelotti said of Bale at his official unveiling. “But he scored a lot of goals, he was very effective, especially in the final games when he played more regularly.
“He is coming back, I know him well. If he is motivated to play, he can have a great season. I have no doubt.
“I have a lot of love still for Gareth, Isco, Marcelo… they will have the motivation to show they can still play for Real Madrid.”
However, asked if Ancelotti’s feelings had made any impact on his future plans, Bale once again decided to keep his cards close to his chest.
“It hasn’t affected anything yet,” he told Sky Sports. “Like I said, I haven’t thought too much about it.
Who will Gareth Bale be playing for on the first day of 2021/22 season? Comment below
“I know Carlo has returned and I get on really well with him and I’m not denying that.
“I’m really just concentrating on now and not thinking about the future at all.
“I imagine I’ll have a conversation with him at some point and I’ll go from there when it happens.”
Pressed for his thoughts on Ancelotti’s return, he added: “I’ve not thought about it to be honest.
“I know he’s returned to Real Madrid and he’s a great manager, a great guy and we had a great time together at Real Madrid. He’s an amazing person to have in charge of Real Madrid.
“I spoke to him when we played Everton at the start of the season, had a hug and a little chat which was nice.
“I’m still in the same boat though, I haven’t thought about it too much. I’m concentrating on what’s happening now and our preparations and what’s going to happen in the Euros.
“I’ll sort the rest out after.”
Tottenham and Wales defender Joe Rodon was asked for his feelings on Bale’s chances of retiring from the sport, only for him to swiftly reply, “no chance”.
