Comparing Gareth Bale's debut season with Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar, Hazard and Gotze
Gareth Bale finally silenced his critics by scoring the winner in Real Madrid's Copa Del Rey victory over arch enemies FC Barcelona. The Welsh international moved to the Spanish capitol this summer, after a long and tiring transfer saga between his former club Tottenham and Real Madrid.Bale, after some initial injury stints, established his position in the squad as a starter leading the attack on the right side and forming a successful 'BBC' partnership with Benzema and Ronaldo. With a trasnfer fee of91 million glued to his forehead, the pressure to deliver in every match was always there.But the challenge has been duely accepted by the winger as he has moved on to double figures for goals scored in his debut season. Bale has summed up a total of 20 goals and 15 assists in his first season in La Liga which is quite remarkable for someone who has just arrived on fresh new grounds.With his exciting introduction into the Spanish league, we take a look at stats of 5 other footballing icons,and how they have fared for their concerned club in their debut season.
#1 Mario Gotze
In 2013, Mario Gotze made his move from Boruusia Dortmund to their domestic rivals Bayern Munich after the German outfit made a €37 million bid, triggering a release clause in his contract.
The highly rated attacking midfielder was brought in to provide more diversity in the Bavarians already intimidating midfield. With exceptional playmaking abilities, high possessing speed and excellent technical and dribbling skill, the German is seen as one of the best young talents in the game.
Since his debut in the Bundesliga, the 21-year-old has contributed in various attacking positions, fulfilling the role of a 'False 9' which Pep Guardiola often utilises. He has made 24 appearances overall, netting on 8 occasions and assisting 6 times in the process.