The public returns to the Bernabéu 560 days later. The voice of the partner returns to Madrid after almost two years of silent games … and in Valdebebas. The essence of the most important club in the world returns in which the Bernabéu, with its fans, usually pass judgment, in many cases, on players and coaches. And among those pending lawsuits, there are especially two to be attentive to, those that may affect Hazard and Bale, currently, the two highest chips in the squad, 15 million euros net per year.
Much more is expected of the two. Hazard's case drags further in time. He is in his third season and to date his contribution (it cost 100 million plus a possible 40 in variables) has been minimal: five goals (of them, only one in the Champions League) in 46 games. “Play without pain and be happy again on the pitch,” said the Belgium coach. Roberto Martínez, after the attacker had great performances in this national team break, con which he added a goal and an assist. Come back with enthusiasm.
Theoretically Hazard has more chances to start than Vinicius against Celta, because he arrived a day earlier to train than the Brazilian. That judgment of the Bernabéu would be blurred if it is part of the eleven. The Belgian will be more in focus, however, if he enters the field from the bench. It is a critical moment in which players are exposed to public opinion. Either way, Sunday is a day of festive atmosphere due to the history of the event in this return of the fans after the bulk of the pandemic … Another thing will be the following days.
Bale's case is different. He returns after a loan at Tottenham in which he did not go badly (he scored 16 goals), despite playing only a few minutes (1,672). Like Hazard, he comes euphoric from this break due to the FIFA Virus in which he scored a historic hat-trick with which he left his team with the possibility of qualifying for the World Cup in Qatar. With Madrid he has already scored a goal this season and has started the first three games (yes, all played away from home).
Ancelotti fully trusts Bale and the Welshman is responding with a positive attitude with which he tries to shine. This campaign has also set the objective of having a great year to say goodbye to Madrid in a big way and to try to leave options open to renew one more year, which would allow him to reach the World Cup in Qatar, his great dream, performing in an elite team.