“Bale is no longer the same … But Cristiano and Messi are not either”

Mourinho does not doubt and, flaunting that virtue, has come out to defend Gareth Bale Before those who accuse him of not having the punch and electricity of years ago. “I'm telling you, seven years is a long time. Stop and analyze it … What player in the world is the same as seven years ago? It is not a question of whether it is better or worse, because sometimes you are simply different. For example, look at Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, compare them to how they were seven years ago. Now they play in different areas, in other positions, because they have transformed their virtues and explored in what other facets they can help their teammates on the field. It happens with most of the footballers, also with Bale, who is not the same, obviously he has changed“.

The Welshman started in Tottenham's blushing defeat (1-0) on the second day of the Europa League against Antwerp. He was substituted at game time to bring Kane in, leaving a heavily criticized performance at home. Since his arrival in London he has played three games and a total of 137 minutes, having not scored or given assists yet. Mourinho asks for calm, applauds his attitude and ensures that the performance will come.

“I keep every word I said yesterday (huge anger after losing). Also what I said about Bale, that I believe in him, because he is working very, very hard. And it is improving. He has not felt an iota of pain since he recovered from the injury he brought from Madrid and he has not missed a single training session. It is true that he still has 90 minutes to play, because there we are already talking about high intensity efforts, but he is on the way. Fortunately, he will find his best level soon “, he concluded. Mou.