Real Madrid Rumors: Zinedine Zidane 'Rules Out' Disgruntled Winger For Future Plans

Zinedine Zidane has been questioned for his rotation that has seen Gareth Bale come off the bench in all Real Madrid’s three games since returning from the hiatus. But what was thought to be a temporary adjustment appears to be an indication that the 47-year-old manager has already decided to strike the Welsh winger out of his future plans for the Los Blancos.

That was, at least, the observation of Jorge Valdano, an ex-boss at Santiago Bernabéu himself, following Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad on Sunday.

“Zidane needs all of his players involved for these games. But that seems to be without Bale, who he has already ruled out,” the Argentine told radio station Onda Cero, via Mundo Deportivo.

Valdano, though, claims that being left out of Madrid does not really bother the 30-year-old footballer.

“Bale does not seem to care too much either, and coaches know when a player wants to play,” he said.

Bugged by injury issues, Bale has failed to find any traction under Zidane’s system. This season, the disgruntled winger logged in just two goals in 15 appearances in La Liga.

During the stretch of three wins since the break, Bale was left under the shadows of Karim Benzema and even 19-year-old Vinicius Junior, whose high level of play earned the attention of Valdano. Comparing the prodigy to fellow Brazilian youngster Rodrygo, the 64-year-old stressed how Vinicius’ confidence is proving to be a game-changer for Madrid.

“His (Vinicius’) contribution ended up being decisive.,” Valdano said. “It seems that Vinicius is giving more to the team. Rodrygo does not have the same degree of self-confidence that Vinicius has.”

Madrid acquired Vinicius effective on his 18^th birthday in July 2018 following a deal signed as early as March 2017. He has appeared in 62 matches for Los Blancos and has netted seven goals in total.

With stellar performances from Zidane’s appointed weapons, Madrid was able to seize the top spot in the league from erstwhile leader Barcelona, which they led by virtue of a head-to-head advantage. They will next face Mallorca on Wednesday and will look to keep their surge running with another victory.