Carlo Ancelotti offers Gareth Bale appraisal and hints at Real Madrid exit for ex-Tottenham star

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has paid tribute to Gareth Bale and believes the Welshman has ‘entered the history’ of the Spanish giants. The 32-year-old is out of contract in June and is expected to leave Los Blancos after nine years at the Bernabeu.

Bale has won a plethora of trophies during his time at Real including two La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues, famously scoring in two finals. However, the Wales star has endured a difficult relationship with the fans and the club over the years.

Despite an impressive record of 106 goals in 257 games, the former Tottenham winger has often been a polarising figure at the Bernabeu. But Ancelotti paid tribute to his contributions to Real and hinted that he will leave when his contract expires in the summer.

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"He had problems and lately he hasn't played, but he's a player who has entered the history of the club with his titles and goals," Ancelotti said.

"He is fine, he's in good physical condition. He has shown that with his national team and he wants to show it here. He's confident, he wants to finish well with this club."

Bale joined Real from Tottenham for £86 million in the summer of 2013, and he returned to the club on loan last season. Despite not being a regular starter under then boss Jose Mourinho he scored an impressive 16 goals in 34 appearances.

The Welshman has been linked with a third spell at Spurs, however, given his age and the outstanding form of Dejan Kulusevski, he could have to make do with a squad role if he returns to north London.