Zidane:
Bale key for Real
...
(January 5th 2016)
New Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he understands Gareth Bale’s disappointment following the exit of Rafael Benitez, but says he remains a key player for the club.
Zidane was appointed at the Bernabeu following the dismissal of Benitez on Monday evening, becoming the 11th coach hired by Real president Florentino Perez and the club's 13th this century.
It is understood Bale is upset with the departure of Benitez but, at his first press conference since being appointed, Zidane claimed the "phenomenal" Welshman is a fundamental player in Real Madrid's future and said he will stick with the front three of Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.
"Gareth was disappointed with the sacking of Rafa because he was an important coach for him but I will treat him the same way Rafa did," Zidane said. "He is an important player and a key player for the squad.
"He's phenomenal and we're going to give him all the care and support he needs."