Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale says that there was no way he could turn down the Spanish giants when they came calling this summer.
The Welshman left Tottenham Hotspur in a world-record move, with Madrid splashing out GBP 85.3 million on the attacker.
It was previously suggested that Bale may have stayed at White Hart Lane if they had secured UEFA Champions League football, but Bale says he could never have turned down such a big opportunity.
Read: Bale In Contract Talks With Spurs
"It's once in a lifetime and I don't think you can turn down a team like that," he told BT Sport.
"For me I want to be playing (in the) Champions League but also winning trophies.
"At a club like that they're out to win every trophy they're involved in. That's exactly what I want to do.
"When Real Madrid comes in it's a once in a lifetime opportunity. I think if I didn't take it I would probably regret it for the rest of my life."
Regarding his thoughts on Spurs, he continued, "The fans have been absolutely unbelievable with me. They've supported me through the bad times and believed in me.
"The nights they were cheering my name, I will never forget the great European nights at White Hart Lane."
"They were amazing and Tottenham will always have a place in my heart.
"I hope they understand Real Madrid is an absolute massive, massive club and they will understand and respect my decision."
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