Gareth Bale recently opened up about his stint with LAFC in MLS, admitting he regrets not making the move earlier in his career.
He acknowledged that many high-profile players only arrive in MLS late in their careers including himself but emphasized his love for the U.S. experience.
“Unfortunately a lot of players come over towards the end of their careers, “I really loved my time here, I actually wish I came over earlier,” he told Front Office Sports.
Bale also criticized the pay structure when European clubs offer significantly more, players are unlikely to take a wage cut to “grow the game.”
“But if you can get more money into football in MLS … attract more players … you have the cities, the stadiums, the fanbase. But something’s not quite right yet,” he said.
He praised the appeal of big U.S. cities, the travel, and the lifestyle “Going to New York, playing in LA, My kids, my family, living there was cool.”
Regarding his time at LAFC, Bale noted he achieved “everything” that season, including an MLS Cup win, so “I ticked the box.”
His remarks underline both the potential and obstacles of MLS becoming a more globally competitive league.
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