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Shortly after Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Manchester United, another nail was put into the coffin of the ‘Gareth Bale may leave’ rumours. Both Bale and Manchester United manager José Mourinho put any last second transfer rumors to rest.
Bale was able to start in the Super Cup victory for Real. In the process, he had a slick assist to Isco on a wonderful interchange early in the second half. The game-plan created great opportunities for Bale to switch from side-to-side throughout the game and really get a good feel for the matchup.
To top off a solid performance during the match, Bale was candid about his summer and discussions (or lack thereof) with Manchester United.
“I haven't had any conversations with them about that, I'm just concentrating on my football and trying to get my fitness up as much as I can after not playing for about eight or nine months.”
“I'm not listening to anything. I don't read anything. Obviously I get told bits and bobs but no, I'm enjoying my football here. I'm playing as much as I can and winning trophies.”
The real surprise was Mourinho admitting defeat in his pursuit of Bale shortly after the game ended. He of course did so in a typically frustrated Mourinho fashion.
“I think clearly the club wants him, the manager wants him and he wants the club so it's game over, even before it started.”
“I think game over because now everybody knows he is going to stay.”