Gareth Bale ‘wants to play a part’ in Wales’ future, says Robert Page as he opens up on legend’s next career move
GARETH BALE wants to play a part of Wales’ future, according to Rob Page
The Dragons legend, 33, retired from football in January following a glittering playing career.
But Bale, Wales’ record goal scorer and appearance holder with 41 international goals and 111 caps, has no desire to go down the management or coaching route right now.
Wales boss Robert Page had opened the door to a possible coaching role but that has now been ruled out.
Instead, Bale is more likely to become an ambassador for his country or an extra voice for Page to seek opinion from.
But Page said: “I spoke to Gareth on Monday and I’m due to have another conversation with him. Nothing particular or specific, just a general chat.
“He’s open to conversations and he wants to play a part in the future, but not from a coaching point of view.
“For me to have another voice from the outside watching things is beneficial. He’s enjoying his retirement.”
Bale’s ex-Wales team-mate and close pal Chris Gunter has joined Page’s coaching staff on a permanent basis ahead of the Euro 2024 double-header this month, against Armenia at home on June 16 and Turkey away three days later.
Following the end of the domestic season, Page will have more Premier League players to pick from next season.
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Connor Roberts won the Championship with Burnley, Sheffield United duo Adam Davies and Rhys Norrington-Davies also clinched automatic promotion while Tom Lockyer will also play in the Prem with Luton.
Wales duo Danny Ward of Leicester and Leeds’ Dan James, who was on loan at Fulham, are currently due to play in the Championship following relegation.
Page added: “You want your best players playing at the top level because that will help us to compete against the top teams in Europe and the rest of the world.
“We need our players being exposed to the top teams, whether that’s in the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga of Serie A.
“Thankfully, we now have more of our Welsh players playing at the top level.”