An FC Barcelona legend and FIFA World Cup winner has addressed the criticism aimed at Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale following his seemingly angry reaction after netting the winner in a LaLiga encounter on the weekend.
Bale was surrounded in a cloud of controversy after his actions in Los Blancos' 2-1 victory over Levante on Sunday. After netting the winner from the penalty spot, Bale's teammates attempted to celebrate with him, only to be met with reluctance from the former Tottenham Hotspur star.
Former Brazil international Rivaldo, who enjoyed a successful five-year stint with the Blaugrana between 1997 and 2002 – most notably being awarded Ballon d'Or in 1999 while also winning two LaLiga titles, a UEFA Super Cup as well as the Copa del Rey during his time with the Blaugrana – has now weighed in on the furore around Bale.
"I don't believe Bale is a bad teammate or a bad person, which is what I've seen said in certain places," Rivaldo was quoted as saying by Sport English.
"I believe he was just angry and he took out that frustration on the wrong person. Nothing more than that. Let's not forget that players are humans too and they can't always hide their feelings.
"It's understandable that he's upset at his situation. Bale is a player who makes the difference in the big games, a top-class forward. And, of course, to have recently been used mainly off the bench – and even then, he still scores – it's normal he isn't satisfied with his role."
Bale has registered 31 appearances across all competitions for Real so far this season, finding the back of the net on 13 occasions and being on hand to assist a further five strikes.
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